America has struggled with racial issues since its birth centuries ago. In this pivotal study of racism in the United States, over 90 primary documents provide compelling evidence of how race has affected and shaped our country throughout the years. A narrative overview of each event, expert analysis, the text of primary sources contemporary to the time of the event, and ready reference materials will help both high school and college students to understand how race has affected the country. From the framing of the Constitution to the removal of American Indians and the Civil War, students will learn how racism is prevalent even in today’s society, be it in the war on terrorism, anti-immigrant feelings, or views against casinos on Native American reservations. Documents include excerpts from speeches, letters, pamphlets, books, essays, newspaper, magazine, and journal articles, government reports, congressional debates, laws, and court decisions.

Each section concludes with suggested readings and Web sites. The work is fully indexed.