"The Color of Law" (book by Richard Rothstein)

"The Color of Law" by Richard Rothstein explores how government policies explicitly created and enforced racial segregation in American cities, particularly through housing practices like redlining, restrictive covenants, and uneven public investments. These actions systematically disadvantaged Black Americans, shaping segregated neighborhoods long after laws against segregation were repealed. Rothstein argues that this deliberate federal, state, and local action maintained racial inequalities in wealth, education, and opportunities, making segregation not just a result of individual choices but a product of government-induced policies. The book emphasizes that understanding this history is crucial for addressing ongoing racial disparities in housing and society.