Samudragupta (Samudragupta the Great), ruler of the Gupta Empire (c. 335 – 375), and successor to Chandragupta I, is considered to be one of the greatest military geniuses in Indian history according to Historian V. A. Smith.

His name is taken to be a title acquired by his conquests (samudra referring to the 'oceans').

Samudragupta the Great is believed to have been his father's chosen successor even though he had several elder brothers.

Therefore, some believe that after the death of Chandragupta I, there was a struggle for succession in which Samudragupta prevailed.