Final answer:
Dravidians held various jobs such as fishermen, seafarers, traders, farmers, and craftworkers in fabrics, influenced by the regions they inhabited and the historic periods, including the Chola dynasty.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Dravidians, primarily associated with southern India, had a rich tapestry of occupations that can be traced back through various historical periods and dynasties. During the ancient Chola dynasty, many Dravidians were fishermen, seafarers, and traders, tasks vital to the region’s economy due to its coastal geography. The community maintained close contacts with other regions such as the Maldives and Southeast Asia. Moreover, in rural societies, occupations like farming and craftwork in fabrics have been depicted in historical carvings, indicating their longstanding importance.
The influence of the caste system on Dravidians extended beyond their local confines as well. During the industrial era, Dravidians, along with other Indians, found work in global enterprises, becoming indentured laborers in Africa, constructing railways in East Africa, and growing cash crops in South America and the Caribbean. This illustrates the wide range of jobs that Dravidians have historically held, moulded by both local customs and the forces of globalization.