Both race and class have played significant roles in shaping American history. However, race has arguably been more significant, as it has been a defining feature of American society since its inception.

Evidence for Race

• Slavery: Slavery was the central institution in the American South for over two centuries. It was based on the idea that black people were inferior to white people and that they could be owned as property. Slavery had a profound impact on American society, both economically and socially.
• Jim Crow: After the Civil War, the South implemented a system of segregation and discrimination known as Jim Crow. Jim Crow laws denied black people basic rights, such as the right to vote, the right to hold certain jobs, and the right to use public facilities. Jim Crow lasted for over 70 years and had a devastating impact on the lives of black Americans.
• Mass Incarceration: Today, the United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world. Black people are disproportionately represented in the prison population. This is due to a number of factors, including racial profiling, police brutality, and the war on drugs. Mass incarceration has had a devastating impact on black families and communities.

Evidence for Class

• The American Dream: The American Dream is the belief that anyone can achieve success through hard work and determination. However, the American Dream has been elusive for many Americans, particularly those from working-class backgrounds.
• Income Inequality: Income inequality has been rising in the United States for decades. The top 1% of earners now own more wealth than the bottom 90% combined. This inequality has made it more difficult for working-class Americans to get ahead.
• The Decline of Unions: Unions have historically been a powerful force for working-class Americans. However, union membership has declined in recent decades. This has made it more difficult for working-class Americans to negotiate for better wages and benefits.

Argument

While class has played a significant role in shaping American history, race has arguably been more significant. Race has been a defining feature of American society since its inception. Slavery, Jim Crow, and mass incarceration have all had a devastating impact on the lives of black Americans. Racism has also limited the opportunities available to black Americans in all areas of life, from education to employment to housing.

While class has also had a significant impact on American society, the effects of class have been more nuanced. The American Dream has given hope to many working-class Americans, even as they have faced challenges such as income inequality and the decline of unions. Additionally, there has been some social mobility in the United States, with some working-class Americans able to move up the economic ladder.

Conclusion

Both race and class have played significant roles in shaping American history. However, race has arguably been more significant, as it has been a defining feature of American society since its inception. Racism has had a devastating impact on the lives of black Americans and has limited their opportunities in all areas of life.

It is important to note that the significance of race and class has varied in different eras. For example, race was more significant in the antebellum South than it is today. Similarly, class was more significant in the Gilded Age than it is today. However, both race and class continue to play important roles in American society today.