What could have been done to end discrimination against nonwhites in the United States at the turn of the century?
I assume you mean about 1900.
I don't know.
What do you think?
I'm not certain. My textbook tells me to consider the attitudes of whites about nonwhites, the efforts of nonwhites to find jobs and security, and the competition for jobs.
The only thing that could have been done was for federal laws to outlaw discrimination. Instead, we had to wait until the 1960s for these Civil Rights laws to be passed by Congress.
To end discrimination against nonwhites in the United States at the turn of the century, several strategies and actions could have been taken. Here are some possibilities:
1. Legal Reforms: Implementing new laws or amending existing ones could have played a crucial role. Key reforms might have included the establishment of anti-discrimination legislation, equal rights protection, and the elimination of racially biased policies such as Jim Crow laws.
2. Education and Awareness: Increasing public awareness and promoting education about racial equality could have been effective. This could have involved integrating schools, providing equal educational opportunities, and raising awareness about the harmful effects of discrimination.
3. Economic Empowerment: Initiatives promoting economic equality and opportunities for nonwhites could have been impactful. This might have involved promoting fair employment practices, equal pay, and implementing policies to address the wealth gap between racial groups.
4. Political Activism: Encouraging nonwhite representation in politics and supporting the participation of nonwhites at all levels of government could have been a viable strategy. This could have involved electoral reform measures, grassroots organizing, and mobilization of nonwhite communities.
5. Social Movements: Supporting and fostering social movements focused on racial equality could have been instrumental. Movements like the Civil Rights Movement, which emerged in the mid-20th century, played a significant role in addressing racial discrimination. Starting these movements earlier might have accelerated progress.
It is important to recognize that these strategies are not exhaustive and that ending discrimination is a complex and multifaceted issue. Historical context, political will, social attitudes, and various other factors also play significant roles.