Race and Caste: Its Impact on the American Political System

The American Constitution’s commitment to “secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity” did not include the enslaved black population that suffered the cruelty of chattel slavery. The black population was not considered full citizens. This essay contends that the residue of this situation still affects U.S. politics—in a significant manner. This analysis examines the historical background of race and caste in American society. It includes the political history of race and caste in the political process since the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 up until contemporary events—including contemporary politics.