What strengthened the economic and political power of the chola empire? a. new religious beliefs b. maritime trade networks c. brilliant bodhisattva leaders d. new agricultural techniques

B. maritime trade networks

The Chola dynasty was one of the longest-reigning ones in the Indian subcontinent. They were originally from the Tamil area, around the Kaveri River. Their reign represented the height of Indian sea power.

The empire owes most of its success to their excellence in foreign trade and maritime activity. They played a major role in regional and overseas trade, and expanded their influence all the way to China and Southeast Asia. The Tang dynasty of China, the Srivijaya empire and the Abbasid Caliphate at Baghdad were their main trading partners.