Race and Transnationalism in the Americas

National borders and transnational forces have shaped the meaning of race in the Americas, with race and its categorization as organizing frameworks for cultural, political, and social inclusion and exclusion. Transnational forces have fundamentally shaped visions of racial difference and ideas of race and national belonging, from the late nineteenth century to the present.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 304 pages
\n Publication date: 05 August 2021
\n Publisher: University of Pittsburgh Press
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The concept of race in the Americas has been significantly shaped by both national borders and transnational forces. In the book "Race and Transnationalism in the Americas," the authors explore the intricate ways in which race and its categorization have served as both tools for cultural, political, and social inclusion and exclusion in the region. It is important to note that racial categories are often constructed through references to the "other," making the national community a crucial starting point for understanding race as a concept. However, this book argues that transnational forces have played a fundamental role in shaping visions of racial difference and ideas of race and national belonging throughout the Americas, spanning from the late nineteenth century to the present.

The authors examine a wide range of topics, including immigration exclusion, indigenous efforts toward decolonization, government efforts to colonize, sports, drugs, music, populism, and film. By analyzing these diverse aspects, the authors aim to shed light on the power and limitations of the transnational flow of ideas, people, and capital. The book covers the entire region of North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean, engaging in broad debates about race, citizenship, and national belonging in the Americas.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the impact of globalization on the construction of race and national identity. The authors argue that transnational flows of people, ideas, and capital have facilitated the spread of racial stereotypes and prejudices, as well as the reinforcement of existing inequalities. For example, the immigration policies of certain countries have been shaped by fears of racial contamination, leading to the exclusion of certain groups based on their race or ethnicity.

At the same time, transnational forces have also provided opportunities for marginalized communities to challenge dominant narratives and assert their identities. For instance, indigenous movements have used cultural practices and political activism to reclaim their land and assert their rights as indigenous peoples. Similarly, the rise of popular music and film has provided a platform for marginalized voices to express their experiences and challenge dominant cultural norms.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of race in shaping political and social movements. The authors examine how race has been used as a tool to mobilize people and create a sense of collective identity. For example, during the civil rights movement in the United States, race was used as a rallying cry to bring together people from different backgrounds and fight for equal rights. Similarly, in Latin America, the concept of race has been used to justify political authoritarianism and the repression of marginalized communities.

However, the book also highlights the limitations of using race as a tool for political and social change. The authors argue that the categorization of people based on race can be harmful and perpetuate stereotypes and prejudices. Moreover, the emphasis on race can sometimes overshadow other important factors, such as class, gender, and sexuality, which also play a significant role in shaping social and political outcomes.

In conclusion, "Race and Transnationalism in the Americas" is a thought-provoking and comprehensive book that provides a valuable insight into the complex relationship between race, transnational forces, and national identity in the Americas. The authors challenge traditional narratives and offer new perspectives on the ways in which race has been constructed, reproduced, and challenged in the region. This book will be of interest to scholars, researchers, and policymakers interested in understanding the dynamics of race and national identity in the Americas.

\n Weight: 628g\n
Dimension: 161 x 236 x 33 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780822946717\n \n