When Affirmative Action Was White by Ira Katznelson

The Untold History of Racial Inequality in Twentieth-Century America

This insightful work delves into the historical roots of affirmative action policies in the United States, revealing how they were initially designed to benefit white Americans, particularly during the New Deal and post-World War II era. By examining key legislative measures and social programs, the book uncovers the systemic racial biases that excluded African Americans from opportunities in housing, education, and employment. Through a meticulous analysis of policy decisions and their long-lasting impacts, it challenges the conventional understanding of affirmative action and highlights the enduring racial inequalities that persist in American society.

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