Richard Rothstein - The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How our Government Segregated America

The video discusses Richard Rothstein's book, 'The Color of Law,' which documents how federal, state, and local governments in the U.S. have unconstitutionally created residential segregation. It highlights the myth of de facto segregation and provides examples, such as Levittown, where government policies explicitly prohibited African Americans from buying homes. These policies led to significant wealth disparities between white and African American families, contributing to ongoing racial inequalities.

What is the main myth about segregation that the book 'The Color of Law' aims to debunk?

• It was a result of individual choices.

• It was due to cultural differences.

• It was caused by economic factors.

• It was a natural occurrence.

What was a key requirement for William Levitt to receive federal support for building Levittown?

• To ensure homes were energy efficient.

• To build homes with modern designs.

• To never sell homes to African Americans.

• To provide homes at a discounted rate.

Which federal document outlined the policies that enforced segregation in housing?

• The Federal Housing Guide

• The Housing Act

• The Underwriting Manual

• The Civil Rights Act

What was the purpose of the concrete wall built in Detroit as mentioned in the book?

• To protect homes from natural disasters.

• To mark property boundaries.

• To separate white and African American neighborhoods.

• To reduce noise pollution.

How did the federal housing policies affect the wealth of white families?

• They caused financial instability.

• They increased their wealth through home equity.

• They had no impact on their wealth.

• They decreased their wealth.

What percentage of white wealth do African American families hold today, as a result of past housing policies?

• 15%

• 20%

• 5%

• 10%

What is the primary cause of the wealth disparity between African American and white families according to the book?

• Cultural spending habits.

• Unconstitutional federal housing policies.

• Varying employment opportunities.

• Differences in education levels.