1 The text below is the pre-print copy of a Special Article that appeared in Economic and Political Weekly, vol. L, nos.46-47 November 21, 2015 States, tribes, castes: a historical re-exploration in comparative perspective Sumit Guha* Abstract This article begins by pointing out that the way the term “tribe” is used in Indian sociology and political discourse does not fit the observed characteristics of the peoples labeled such in any part of the world. It then reconsiders the long history of social categories across the Indian sub-continent to develop a new model of dominant landed community that would apply across all its regions and faiths. In conclusion, it suggests some new terms that might replace “tribe” in Indian social thought. ______________________________________________ * University of Texas at Austin.