Question

Describe the caste system in India, and the status of the "Dalits" or the "Untouchables"

Answer 1

Braham.
.Kshatriya.
.Vaishyas.
Shudra.
Untouchable/Dalit.

It was the lowest of lows, they lived in dirty conditions and did the gross jobs

Answer 2

The emergence of the caste system in India can be traced back to the Vedic times particularly to the Rig Veda.  The Tenth Mandala of the Rig Veda describes the system of four Varna. This system is based on a hierarchy, in which the Brahamana was at the top followed by the Kshatriya and then Shudra. In this hierarchy, Vaishyas were on the bottom. Vaishyas were meant to serve all the three varnas. They faced various kind of discrimination, for instance, they were not allowed to take part in ritual sacrifices and recite the Vedas.