A. The caste system was the basis of Indian society. The order and grouping of social classes was based on the caste system. The caste system affected trade by allowing wealthy merchants to have an even larger influence on the area.

B. At first, the caste system was only prevalent in India, but due to trade and social relationships, the use of the caste system also spread to the southern regions of India. Also, powerful temples helped spread the use of the caste system.

Caste System