1. Hindu Caste System Social Structure in ancient India

2. Brahmin Hindu priests & scholars Well-respected & well-educated. Perform rituals, influence laws, etc. Have to perform many religious duties every day, but lead extremely comfortable lives in general.

3. Kshatriya Ruling & warrior elite Lead wars & create laws. Males expected to be strong and aggressive; females expected to be gentle and well-behaved. Luxurious palaces, multiple wives, many belongings, & fine food. Even allowed to eat meat!

4. Vaishya Farmers, landowners, bakers, traders, money- lenders Usually wealthy, but still toward the bottom of the caste system. They are responsible for constructing public buildings. Well-educated caste. Considered an extremely important caste because of the work they do. Some resentment due to place in system versus wealth/importance.

5. Shudra “Unskilled” workers (cobblers, blacksmiths, maids, cooks) & slaves Not untouchables, but still discriminated against. Had to use different temples & public buildings. Significant difference between Vaishya & Shudra castes. Spend most of the day doing menial work.

6. Dalit – “Untouchables” Butchering, street cleaning, latrine/sewer work. This work is “unclean” & contagious. Forced to stay outside of village. Can’t use temples or schools. Not allowed to touch others. Extremely poor, they were often harassed, murdered, and victims of violence.