Book Review: How Race Survived U.S. History
Roediger (2012) in his book “How Race Survived US History: From Settlement and Slavery to the Obama Phenomenon” presents a good analysis of U.S. history to the readers. The book is considered as one of the best works, performed in the field of American history. Roediger is history professor at University of Illinois, and has a great understanding of the subject which is clearly reflected in the book. The book presents a detailed analysis of race related issues that were prevailing during the past. This paper presents an analysis of the book and discusses the role of race in the U.S. history.
The initial chapter of the book elaborates how race related issues were created in the American society in order to encourage slave practices. The author presented an in-depth analysis of race related issues from 1600s to today’s conditions in a very clear and effective manner. All points made by the author are supported with examples and his own justifications (Roediger). Roediger initiated his discussion by explaining the meaning of race and excluding it from the normal process (Roediger, 11-12).
Roediger discussion very clearly indicate two major points: first, he gave scorching rejection to the people who now praise President Obama at the time when racism is ended. Second, his work is not for all people but is intended for a special class of readers. Through the book, Author did not use footnotes, bibliography or scholarly sources from past literature. The author motioned that demographic factors, legal trends and economic trends will eliminate the white supremacy, and there is no requirement of any anti-racist actions (Roediger, 14).
Race played a major role through the U.S. history and different stages of U.S. history observed contemporary society. Race was present and survived in different phases of history such as American civil war and liberation of civil rights. The race related issues were also presented when America became the strongest country of the world. Roediger emphasized on the point that race was recreated numerous times to uphold the supremacy of white Americans. Author gave examples how white people were given priorities without giving consideration to their skills, knowledge and other qualities; they were special because they were white.
Black people were considered as uncivilized, and curse to the society. Blacks were used to perform all types of works: they were treated very badly by white people. Blacks were forced to work with empty stomach and sleep on the floors. They were beaten by their masters. Trading of slaves was also common phenomena at that time. Roediger also talks about other races that has become an integrated part of the American society. Overall, the initial three chapters of the book gives a deep insight on the subject, and importance to eliminate such issues in order to develop a healthy society as well as progressive nation.
Work Cited
Roediger, David R. How Race Survived US History: From Settlement and Slavery to the Obama Phenomeno. USA: Verso Books, 2010.
