Synopsis The Asiatic Society of Bengal, which was founded in 1784 by William Jones, is of immense importance for its pioneering work in laying the foundations of indological studies. Within the space of fifty years, through the patient collection and study of manuscripts, coins, inscriptions and monuments, the members of the society laid bare the broad outlines of ancient Indian history, and re-discovered the great classics of Sanskrit literature and its epics. Amongst the spectacular early achievements were the discovery of the forgotten empire of Asoka Maurya and the deciphering of his edicts.