Dacoits


 * The Dacoits**


 * The Dacoits were a class of criminals, the "gangstas' of India typically gathered in robber bands who worked and raided the Indian countryside, mainly villages, rather than cities in India because the large sub continent, with sparse populations in some rural areas, harsh environments and poor communications means that many good hiding.
 * Except for common criminals, Dacoit membership was typically composed of outcastes of Hindu society, such as untouchables, nomads, early Muslim invaders and other minorities who were not integrated into the Caste System.
 * The Dacoits have a long history of ravaging and plundering in India, with some evidence suggesting origins up to //1500 years old//.
 * The Dacoits were often hired for their services by Princes or Kings, like looting, plundering or doing guerrila warfare.



Sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dacoit http://www.jstor.org/pss/177695 (" A note on the Dacoits of India" http://isp.sagepub.com/content/28/4/267.short ("Makings of a Dacoit")