Chandragupta Maurya was _________.

The correct option is A a benevolent despot

Chandragupta Maurya (reign: 321–297 BCE) was the founder of the Maurya Empire in ancient India and was a pivotal figure in the history of India. India achieved her political unity under the Maurya dynasty of which Chandragupta Maurya was the founder.

After unifying much of India, Chandragupta and Chanakya passed a series of major economic and political reforms. He established a strong central administration. Chandragupta's India was characterized by an efficient and highly organized structure. The empire built infrastructural works such as irrigation, temples, mines, and roads, leading to a strong economy. Such measures are first witnessed under the Mauryan Empire in India.