American urban segregation

2006
united states

American urban segregation refers to the spatial separation and division of communities along racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic lines in American cities. It is a product of historical practices, policies, and attitudes that have led to the concentration of certain racial and ethnic groups in specific neighborhoods or areas.

Historically, urban segregation in the United States can be traced back to slavery, when African Americans were often confined to specific neighborhoods or relegated to separate and inferior facilities. This pattern continued during the Jim Crow era, a period of legalized racial discrimination that lasted from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century.

One of the main factors contributing to urban segregation has been housing discrimination. During the mid-20th century, a practice known as redlining emerged, in which neighborhoods were categorized based on their racial composition. This led to the denial of mortgage loans and other financial assistance to African Americans and other minority groups, effectively trapping them in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Government policies, such as the construction of public housing projects in predominantly minority neighborhoods, also contributed to urban segregation. These policies often concentrated poverty and limited access to quality schools, healthcare, and other resources.

While segregation has decreased since the Civil Rights era, it continues to persist in many American cities. Factors such as income inequality, limited affordable housing options, and the legacy of past discriminatory practices contribute to ongoing segregation patterns.

The consequences of urban segregation are far-reaching. It perpetuates social and economic disparities, as communities with fewer resources, opportunities, and services are often concentrated in segregated neighborhoods. Segregation also contributes to unequal access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, leading to a perpetuation of socioeconomic inequalities.

Efforts to address urban segregation have included fair housing laws, policies to promote community integration, and initiatives to increase affordable housing options in diverse neighborhoods. However, the challenges of combating segregation remain complex, requiring systemic and structural changes to address its underlying causes.

Further reading

Nightingale C.H. (2006) "The transnational contexts of early twentieth century American urban segregation", Journal of Social History, 39(3), pp. 667-702+952. Oxford University Press. DOI: 10.1353/jsh.2006.0008