The Refuge Tree. When a mother black bear leads her cubs away from a den, her usual destination is a big tree where the cubs can take refuge from danger. Around Ely, that tree is typically a white pine over 21 inches in diameter.
caste. 1. (noun) A stratified system of categorization based on a status conferred at birth (ascribed status) due to an personâs descent in which individuals do not have mobility due to custom or law. Example: JÄti in India. 2. (noun) A group and the individual members of a group within a caste.
The caste system in India is an important part of ancient Hindu tradition and dates back to 1200 BCE. The term caste was first used by Portuguese travelers who came to India in the 16th century. Caste comes from the Spanish and Portuguese word casta which means race, breed, or lineage. Many Indians use the term jati.