The document discusses the origins and history of the caste system in Hinduism in India. It explains that the Aryan invaders created the varna system which divided society into four hereditary classes - Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Shudras - based on racial and occupational differences. Over time, the caste system became more rigid and restricted social mobility and interactions between castes. While Buddhism provided an alternative that was more inclusive, Hinduism was reformed and devotional cults became popular, allowing it to flourish again where Buddhism declined.

1. The Caste System and Hinduism AP World History

2. Questions By implementing the caste system, what was accomplished? How is this similar to China? Persia? Can you apply the caste system to high school?

3. Caste Origins Aryan invaders create social order Hereditary, defines societal roles, occupation Varna = “color” - racial differences Based upon idea that people are different, should have different roles

4. Four Varnas Brahmans / Priests - intellectual and spiritual leaders Kshatriya / Warriors and aristocrats - protectors of society Vaishyas / Merchants, farmers, artisans - skilled producers Shundras / unskilled labor Untouchables - outside of caste system

5. Characteristics Caste defined occupation, diet, social interactions, style of dress Shundras, untouchables excluded - could not read/hear Vedas Duty of monarch to maintain system Lack of individualism

6. Connections to Hinduism Indian leaders believed it to supernaturally ordained Brahmans spiritual leaders of India, advised kings, emperors Upward social mobility only through reincarnation Collected karma influences next life

7. Early Hinduism Declines Sacrifices too great, rituals too tedious Buddhism expands - provides alternative to caste system Buddha seen as a savior - help ALL people find salvation Laypeople could perform good works => salvation

8. Early Hinduism Declines Emperor Ashoka

9. Hindu Resurgence Decline of Mauryan Empire = decline of Buddhism in India Brahmans make it more appealing to common people Stressed importance of personal worship, devotion to individual gods Karma acquired by completion of caste duties / obligations

10. Hindu Resurgence Devotional cults open to all castes Created more “milestone” rituals Over time Buddha worshipped as a worldly form of Vishnu

11. Hindu Resurgence Salvation attainable by all Bhagavad Gita - Poem that represented new ethical teachings - individuals could escape cycle of reincarnation (the ultimate reality or moksha)

12. Aims of Human Life Dharma - Obedience to religious and moral laws Artha - The pursuit of economic well-being and honest prosperity Kama - The enjoyment of social and physical interactions A proper balance of these would help an individual attain moksha

13. Gupta Empire Supported Hinduism - restored Brahmans in gov’t Extensive building of temples Caste system reasserted / solidified into Indian culture - more rigid Expanded with new Jatis Further restrictions put on Untouchables

14. Questions Why do you think modern day India has such a difficult time eliminating the caste system to day? Some Hindu scholars argue that the caste system actually contradicts Hinduism, what is your reaction? In the end, what single factor allowed Hinduism to flourish and Buddhism decline?