Content Warning: This text contains intense criticisms of religious beliefs, specifically those in Hinduism. It also references social discrimination and systemic oppression.

Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was the youngest child of his parents, and was born into the Mahar, or the Dalits, the “untouchable” caste occupying the very lowest stratum in the complex Indian caste system. In his youth, his mother died, and the family moved to be closer to extended relatives; at the age of 15, he was sent into an arranged marriage and continued with his studies in Mumbai. At 21-years-old he graduated from Bombay University with a degree in economics and political science. After his undergraduate studies, Ambedkar would go on to study in graduate school, earning multiple master’s degrees and eventually receiving doctoral degrees in economics from both Columbia University and the London School of Economics.

During his studies he attempted to hold down multiple jobs to help support his family, but certain business opportunities continued to fail on account of his clients discovering that he was a member of the “untouchable” caste. Eventually, with his studies finished, he began to participate in public movements to remove the stigma against the lowest castes.