Subject
Caste -- India Books
Best books
Robert H. (Robert Henry) Elliot
Gold, Sport, and Coffee Planting in Mysore With chapters on coffee planting in Coorg, the Mysore representative assembly, the Indian congress, caste and the Indian silver question, being the 38 years' experiences of a Mysore planter
"Gold, Sport, and Coffee Planting in Mysore" by Robert H. Elliot is a historical account that appears to have been written in the late 19th century. The work chronicles the author’s extensive experiences over 38 years as a planter in the Mysore region of India, detailing his observations on coffee cultivation, the impact of European settlers, and the local socio-economic conditions, particularly during periods of famine. The opening of the book introduces readers to Elliot's journey to Mysore in 1855, where he describes the significant changes in both the travel experience and the region since then. He reflects on the pioneering days of coffee planting, the isolation felt by early European settlers, and the transformative effects of British capital and governance on the local economy and infrastructure. Elliot’s narrative suggests a keen appreciation for the beauty of the Mysore countryside, as well as a commitment to exploring both the challenges and triumphs of agricultural life in the region. As he navigates through his early experiences, readers gain insight into not only the practical aspects of coffee cultivation but also the complexities of cultural interactions and the evolution of Mysore's landscape over time.
J. D. (James Drummond) Anderson
The Peoples of India
"The Peoples of India" by J. D. Anderson is a scholarly work written in the early 20th century. This book serves as an ethnological and anthropological investigation into the diverse populations of India, focusing on their races, castes, languages, and religions. It aims to present an integrated view of the rich tapestry of Indian society, exploring the intricate relationships between various peoples shaped by historical and cultural forces. At the start of the text, the author introduces the complex social landscape of India, highlighting the variety of ethnic groups and cultural influences present in the country. He discusses the significance of the 1911 Indian Census and reflects on his personal experiences during this enumeration, which provided him with unique insights into the lives and diversity of the Indian populace. The opening sets the stage for a detailed exploration of race and caste, as well as the interplay of language and religion in shaping Indian society, emphasizing the observable physical attributes and cultural traits that delineate the various communities in India.
B. R. (Bhimrao Ramji) Ambedkar
Castes In India
"Castes In India" by B. R. Ambedkar is a paper presented in 1916 and published in 1917. Originally delivered at an anthropological seminar in New York, this work examines the origins and workings of India's caste system. Ambedkar challenges existing scholarly explanations, arguing that endogamy—strict marriage within groups—forms the essence of caste. He traces how this system emerged through Brahmin practices and explores controversial customs like sati and child marriage as mechanisms preserving social boundaries in Indian society.
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