subalterns

The term subaltern refers to marginalized groups or individuals who are subordinate to the dominant social, political, or economic structures. Coined by Antonio Gramsci, it denotes those who lack a voice and are excluded from mainstream discourse and power. Subaltern studies is a field of academic inquiry that examines the history, culture, and experiences of these groups, often from their own perspectives.

Key characteristics of subaltern groups include their position outside dominant power structures, their limited access to resources and representation, and their exclusion from official narratives. These groups can encompass various social categories such as peasants, laborers, women, ethnic minorities, and indigenous populations, depending on the specific historical and social context. The subaltern perspective challenges the traditional historiography that focuses on elites and rulers, aiming to uncover the agency and resistance of the oppressed.

The concept of subalternity highlights the complex power dynamics inherent in society and the ways in which dominance is maintained through the silencing or marginalization of certain voices. By studying the subaltern, scholars seek to understand the multifaceted nature of social inequality and to give recognition to those who have historically been overlooked or misrepresented.