How did ashoka blend religion and politics?

Ashoka, managed to reconcile religion and politics because he, after fighting in wars, became a Buddhist, after the wars he fought altered him, to watch death and violence. Being a Buddhist, he decided that his reign would be peace, leaving the Hindus with their beliefs and religion, although always seeking (through the way of peace) that more and more people would become Buddhist. During his reign there was peace, there were no wars or famines, and no enemy kingdom attacked his empire, as the foreign policy of Ashoka abandoned expansionism and dedicated himself to good coexistence and peace with the neighboring kingdoms. According to Buddhism, Ashoka was dedicated to ensuring the security, peace and happiness of all living beings under his reign.

Asa whitney was the first to advocate for a transcontinental railroad.