B.R. (Bhimrao Ramji) Ambedkar 1891–1956
Framer of India's Constitution and Champion of Human Rights
In 1950, India adopted a new constitution. It gave equal rights to Dalits, a group of about 60 million poor people known then as “untouchables.” The main author of this constitution was B.R. Ambedkar, a Dalit leader.
As a member of the Dalit class, Ambedkar faced real challenges. In school he had to sit in a corner, apart from the other students. He could not drink from the same water fountain as other people. Yet Ambedkar succeeded in graduating and went on to study in the United States and England. After returning to India, Ambedkar practiced law, but his fellow lawyers refused to come near him. It was then that he decided to work for equality for all Indians.
In 1924, Ambedkar started an organization to work for better schools and jobs for Dalits. He published articles and led nonviolent protests against the caste system. He also formed a political party. By 1948, he was a well-known leader and respected lawyer. He was asked to lead the group that wrote the constitution for India's newly independent country.
B.R. Ambedkar continued speaking out about inequality against Dalits, women, and other minorities, until his death. He is a hero to Indians and to all who believe in equality and human rights.
Critical Thinking
In what ways was B.R. Ambedkar like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.?