Caste System and Political Movements in South Asia

A collection of vocabulary flashcards summarizing key terms and concepts related to the caste system and significant political movements in South Asia.

Castes

Social divisions in India traditionally determined by birth.

Vedic Texts

Ancient Indian texts comprising hymns and prayers, primarily in Sanskrit, sacred in Hinduism.

Brahmins

The highest varna in the caste system, traditionally priests and scholars.

Kshatriyas

The warrior and aristocratic varna in the caste system, responsible for protection and governance.

Vaishyas

The varna associated with trades, agriculture, and commerce.

Shudras

The lowest varna in the caste system, encompassing laborers and service providers.

Manusmriti

An ancient Sanskrit text that outlines the laws and social duties in Hinduism.

Dalit

A term coined by the Government of India Act of 1935: Historically marginalized communities in India, previously referred to as 'Untouchables'.

Annihilation of Caste

A significant critique of the caste system written by B.R. Ambedkar, promoting social equality.

B.R. Ambedkar

Indian social reformer, principal architect of the Indian Constitution, and champion of Dalit rights. Harsh critic of religion backed discrimination

Muslim League

Political party established in 1906 to promote the interests of Muslims in India.

Awami League

Political party in East Pakistan advocating for Bengali autonomy, which later led to Bangladesh's independence.

Hindu Mahasabha

A Hindu nationalist political party founded in 1915 advocating for Hindu interests in India. demanded the Partitio of Bengal and Punjab

Gandhi's Non-cooperation Movement

A movement aimed at resisting British rule through nonviolent means, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi.

Six-Point Program

A political manifesto by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman advocating for greater autonomy for East Pakistan.

Emergency of 1975

Period of political turmoil in India where democratic rights were suspended under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Islamization

The process by which Islamic principles were integrated into the political and legal framework of Pakistan under Zia-ul-Haq.

Chittagong Hill Tracts War

Conflict in Bangladesh over autonomy for indigenous Jumma people, seeking recognition of their rights.