This book is a fascinating study of the differences between the wealth held by Blacks and Whites in the United States.A historical perspective is provided, yet the book makes clear how the momentum of past actions continue though the present.It was this facet of the book that provided the greatest emotional impact.The authors did an excellent job of stressing the differential effects of income and wealth, and how wealth is by far the better measure for examining economic well-being.The data was broken down and explained according to education, income, housing, and many other variables.Case studies helped to put poignant "faces" on the facts to show how Blacks have been impacted by the differing conditions that they experience.While it is not hard to find examples to the contrary, as I was reading this book, I noticed a growing sense of discomfort with the frequency with which the two races were discussed and compared monolithically.It is not difficult to view one race as victim and the other as oppressor within a historical perspective, but I found myself wanting to believe that it is individuals and groups in the present who decide whether to overcome adversities and utilize opportunities.Unfortunately, this book shows how much further the United States must go to achieve equal opportunities of economic mobility.
Published in 1995, the data within this book is now roughly ten years old.Studies published since then indicate that any changes over the last decade have been subtle at best.This book continues to describe conditions that continue to be both important and relevant.I have no hesitation in recommending this book to anyone, regardless of color.
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