Underpinnings 0
American history and race (and racism) are intimately intertwined.
In a fascinating article at The American Scholar, Nancy Isenberg explores what she calls the “problem of whiteness” in American history and culture. She traces the historical roots and variations and permutations of the meaning of “white” and “whiteness” from the Colonial era forward. In doing so, she helps illuminate events and attitudes that shape American society today.
Her piece is beyond summary, but here’s an excerpt which will give you a hint of some of the contradictions and hypocrisies that she tracks; follow the link for the rest.
