Birth of a White Nation: The Invention of White People and Its Relevance Today

by Jacqueline M Battalora

"Birth of A White Nation (2nd edition) examines the social construction of race through the invention of white people. Surveying colonial North American law and history, the book interrogates the origins of racial inequality and injustice in American society, and details how the invention still serves to protect the ruling elite to the present day. This second edition documents the proliferation of ideas imposed and claimed throughout history that have conspired to give content, form and social meaning to one's racial classification. Beginning its expanded narrative with the development of diverse Native American societies through contact with European colonizers in the Tidewater region, and progressing to the emigration of Mexicans, Irish and other 'non-whites', this new edition addresses the ongoing production and reproduction of whiteness as a distinct and dominant social category. It also looks to the future by developing a new, applied framework for countering racial inequality and promoting greater awareness of anti-racist policies and practices. Birth of a White Nation will be of great interest to students, scholars and general readers seeking to make sense of the dramatic racial inequities of our time and to forge an anti-racist path forward"--

Unknown Binding

Published April 1, 2021

Reviews

[Terri Gulyas]

One of the most impactful books I've ever read. It's not an easy read - in the beginning it was slow reading but I was incredulous about how the concept of white as a race began and, even more so, how it has persisted over the years. The second half of the book filled me with profound sorrow and a deep rage over the injustices that have occurred in our country, especially as I see the political direction we are in now. Initially, I felt helpless, thought I could do nothing to make a difference but that's not true. When I'm asked my race, I'll check the box that says "prefer not to answer". I developed a list of minority owned businesses in our community and will patronize those. I will donate to nonwhite candidates running for political office and will give generously to organizations that support and celebrate our diversity. I will speak out when I hear microaggressions or see people treated unfairly and will monitor my own language and actions as well. I strongly encourage this book for all to read but especially those who are history deniers!

[Betty]

Very detailed with legal documents cited. Interesting history. Makes me look at "race" differently.

[Janice Bodily]

I found this book to be thought-provoking and educational. My views of race are changed as a result of Jacqueline Battalora's work. Be sure to persist to the Afterword.