"This book constitutes a unique exploration of 2,500 years of the development of Buddhism, Brahmanism and caste in India, taking Dr. Ambedkar's interpretation of Buddhism as its starting point. Gail Omvedt has researched both the original sources of the Buddhist canon and recent literature to provide an absorbing account of the historical, social, political and philosophical aspects of Buddhism. In the process, she discusses a wide range of important issues of current concern." "Providing an entirely new interpretation of the origins and development of the caste system, which boldly challenges the 'Hindutva' version of history, this book will attract a wide readership among all those who are concerned with the state of contemporary India's polity and social fabric. It will be of equal interest to sociologists, political scientists, historians, and students of religion, philosophy and Dalit movements."--Jacket.