How have ethnic mythologies affected racial relations in the US? Explain why.
A. Ethic mythology has led to improved race relations in the US during the twentieth century
B. Racial discrimination based on ethnic mythology became illegal when the US became independent
C. European and Euro-American ethnic mythology has been used to justify racial discrimination
D. Discrimination based on ethnic mythologies has been limited to Black Americans in the US
C. European and Euro-American ethnic mythology has been used to justify racial discrimination.
Ethnic mythologies, particularly those held by European and Euro-American groups, have had a significant impact on racial relations in the United States. These mythologies have often been used to justify and perpetuate racial discrimination against non-white groups.
Throughout history, European and Euro-American societies have constructed myths and ideologies that promote a hierarchy of races, with white/European descent being viewed as superior. These narratives have often been used to justify colonization, slavery, segregation, and other forms of racial oppression.
For example, the concept of white supremacy, rooted in European and Euro-American ethnic mythology, has been used to justify the marginalization and mistreatment of non-white groups throughout U.S. history. This belief in racial superiority has been reinforced through various means, including the pseudoscience of eugenics, which sought to "scientifically" prove the innate superiority of white/European individuals.
These ethnic mythologies have also influenced societal attitudes and behaviors towards racial minorities. They have perpetuated stereotypes, discrimination, and systemic inequalities that continue to affect racial relations today.
It is important to note that discrimination based on ethnic mythologies is not limited to Black Americans. While Black Americans have historically faced significant discrimination, other non-white groups, such as Native Americans, Asian Americans, and Latinx individuals, have also been subject to various forms of racial discrimination influenced by ethnic mythologies.
In summary, ethnic mythologies, particularly those held by European and Euro-American groups, have played a significant role in shaping racial relations in the United States. They have been used to justify racial discrimination, perpetuate stereotypes, and maintain systemic inequalities.