Social group dispersed by end of Empire (5)
I believe the answer is:
caste
This clue might be a double definition.
'social group' is the first definition.
(I've seen this before)
'dispersed by end of empire' is the second definition.
The answer and definition can be both groups as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for caste that I've seen before include "Large, long-necked, wading bird" , "Social status" , "A sect (anag)" , "Hindu social rank" , "Group within society" .)