The "birth" of Buddhism

What were the social and cultural conditions that informed and set the stage for the birth and spread of

Buddhism?
I would suggest focusing on either the "birth" of Buddhism, or a particular "social and cultural condition"

that shaped Buddhism into a single sect. That is, don't try to summarize everything … I'd rather have you

focus on (e.g,) Mahayana Buddhism, OR Japanese Zen, OR the spread of Buddhism in the West.
Use quotes from the source material to guide and support your argument. Since you're not trying to cover

every stage, I'd like to see you dig pretty deep into whatever stage you choose
In your responses, as always, please help each other develop your ideas. That means details and critical

thinking! (I should add, though, that most of you are doing a good job with this.)

Sample Solution