The Historical Background of Indian Caste System in Ancient India: A Review

Examining the Historical Roots and Modern Implications of the Indian Caste System

Abstract

This speculative paper argues that the caste system of India could be seen as a present-day remnant of ‘tribal apartheid’ which came into being when Indo-European warlike nomadic pastoralists overran and dominated an earlier urban Dravidian peoples. This form of discrimination based on identity is akin to racism. The enduring salience of caste and colour consciousness among Indians forms one of the great modern paradoxes that have resisted Indian governmental attempts to bring about social change.This lesson teaches about the Caste System of Ancient India by grouping students so that they act out roles of the Caste as they complete an assignment. Students experience first-hand the lack of equality and fairness that exists in India. At the conclusion of the lesson students compare the caste system with the American class structure. This lesson will stir a lively discussion and lead to student thinking about the inequalities that exist among most societies, including our own.