A Comprehensive Dictionary of History by Dell Ashley (Hardback)

Kautilya or Chanakya was an Indian philosopher, teacher and advisor. He aided Chandragupta Maurya in founding the massive Mauryan Empire. He was born in Taxila, South India. He is the founder of political science and economics in India. He encouraged international trade and helped rulers make their visions a reality. He felt that the state should have total control over land, water and mining. He strongly recommended keeping a check on government functions by keeping an eye on money transactions. His age old policies seem to ring true today too and are followed by many people.