Monday, April 30 th Class Discussion Question Create a list (with short explanation) of the 5 “worst” jobs in modern American society.

Here is the plan… Students will understand the origins of the caste system. Students will relate the caste system to the Hindu principles of karma, re-incarnation, and dharma. Students will brainstorm a list of other examples of systemized discrimination.

The Caste System Read “The Caste System” from page #524 in your Red textbook. Read “More about the Caste System in India” from page #526 in your textbook.

Aryan Beliefs The Aryans were warlike people who conquered much of India’s Northern 1500 B.C. The Aryans placed great value on cattle. Cattle was given to warriors who were successful in battle. The Aryans divided people into 4 social classes called “varna”.

Caste System The caste system is based in large part upon Aryan beliefs (developed over thousands of years). Aryan beliefs are thought to be the basis for Hinduism. According to Hinduism, people suffer from pain and sorrow because they pursue false goals such as material riches.

Caste Karma Dharma Reincarnation

And now our feature presentation…

Caste System The caste system has been officially outlawed in India since their independence in People still experience some forms of discrimination based upon the caste system - most notably in rural areas.

Highest caste The highest caste are the Brahmins. Brahmins are often Hindu priests.

Untouchable Estimates vary, but National Geographic estimates that 1 in 6 Indians are considered Untouchable.

Politically Correct It is no longer correct to use the term “Untouchable”. Mohandas Gandhi called these people the Harijan meaning “children of god”!

Here is the plan… Students will understand the origins of the caste system. Students will relate the caste system to the Hindu principles of karma, re-incarnation, and dharma. Students will brainstorm a list of other examples of systemized discrimination.