Final answer:
Siddhartha Gautama founded Buddhism in response to his disillusionment with the caste system and ritualism of Hinduism, seeking a more direct path to enlightenment that did not rely on these hierarchical structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Siddhartha Gautama, who later became known as Buddha, founded Buddhism due to his disillusionment with certain aspects of Hinduism, most notably the caste system and the prevalent ritualistic practices of the time. This spiritual figure sought a more direct and egalitarian path to enlightenment, which led to the establishment of Buddhism. The correct answer to the question is (A) He was disillusioned with the caste system, as it was a significant factor, but it was part of a broader context of Siddhartha seeking a path that was more personal and internally focused, which can be seen as a direct path to enlightenment (Answer C).
While Siddhartha did not reject the notion of reincarnation or karma, prevalent in Hindu thought, he offered a new interpretation that did not involve a permanent soul passing from life to life but rather a continuity of consciousness. His teachings emphasized the impermanence of the world and the self, and the suffering caused by attachments and desires. By following the Eightfold Path as laid out in the Four Noble Truths, Siddhartha taught that individuals could achieve enlightenment and escape the cycle of rebirth, thereby attaining Nirvana.