This book exposes the roots of the caste system and untouchability. BR Ambedkar, who himself belonged to the untouchable caste, describes the lives of the untouchables and the discrimination and oppression they faced. The book analyses religious texts such as the Vedas, Puranas and Manusmriti to show how these texts declared the untouchables 'impure' and 'inferior' and isolated them from society.
Ambedkar also explains how colonial rule further strengthened this practice.
This book also documents the struggles of the untouchables and the movements for their rights. 'Who Were the Untouchables and How They Became Untouchables?' is an important book for understanding the caste system and untouchability. It is also a source of inspiration for those fight- ing for social justice and equality.