Question

Some scholars have argued that there is no coherent basis for treating tribes as ‘pristine’ – i.e., original or pure – societies uncontaminated by civilization. The idea that tribes are like stone age hunting and gathering societies that have remained untouched by time is still common, even though this has not been true for a long time. Based on the above passage, justify with four reasons why this idea of tribes having remained untouched is untrue. 

Hint:

When analyzing the idea of tribes, always try to debunk the popular stereotypes and consider their active role in wider society.

Answer 1

Tribes Were Not Always Oppressed Groups: Contrary to the stereotype, many tribal groups had established kingdoms. The Gond kingdom in Central India is a very good example of this, and highlights that they were not always isolated, oppressed groups but they also held political power.
Emergence of Rajput Kingdoms: Many so-called Rajput kingdoms in Central and Western India actually emerged through a process of social stratification among adivasi communities. This demonstrates that many of the dominant groups had a tribal ancestry.
Dominance Over Plains People: Tribal groups often exercised dominance over the plains people through their capacity to raid them, and through their services as local militias, indicating that they were very active in political life.
Trade: They also occupied a special trade niche, trading forest produce, salt, and elephants. This indicates that they had economic links with the wider society.
Capitalist Economy and Tribes: The capitalist economy’s drive to exploit forest resources and minerals brought tribal societies in contact with mainstream society a long time ago. Thus, tribes were actively involved in wider economy.