The three upper varnas colluded to keep Shudras disarmed, poor and ignorant

Evidence

Whether or not the relationship of guardian and ward was the real underlying conception on which chaturvarnya was based, there is no doubt that in practice the relation was that of master and servants. The three classes, Brahmins, Kshatriyas and Vaishyas, although not very happy in their mutual relationship, managed to work by compromise. The Brahmin flattered the Kshatriya, and both let the Vaishya live in order to be able to live upon him. But the three agreed to beat down the Shudra. He was not allowed to acquire wealth, lest he should be independent of the three varnas. He was prohibited from acquiring knowledge, lest he should keep a steady vigil regarding his interests. He was prohibited from bearing arms, lest he should have the means to rebel against their authority. — Ambedkar, B R, Annihilation of Caste_ The Annotated…, 926

Categorization

• QUESTION: The systematic logic — wealth forecloses independence, knowledge forecloses vigilance, arms foreclose rebellion — deserves cross-checking against actual Manu passages Ambedkar cites.