The Power of Illusion - Essay Example

The Power of Illusion: Reflection Although considered a conglomerate of the world, a glimpse at the American history reveals that outsiders who settled in the region faced challenging conditions in term of getting acceptance of the local population. From the one-drop rule to the Jim Crow laws, the increasing span of oppression affected the lives of millions. Public at the same time was fed with lies; turning traitors like Benedict Arnold into national heroes. Hatred for the people of color was promoted to such an extent that practices like blockbusting became a reality.

The extreme gentrification that took place literally wiped the poor deprived colored classes from the faces of cities; thereby making room for the whites to flourish without hindrance. The process has been extremely dreadful, and the fact that there were actually laws implemented for the purpose of sustaining segregation of races makes it further ugly. The improvement in the living conditions of people of color appears to be the result of their own efforts; the whites still being reluctant to accept the colored races.

Although, America claims to be a land where assimilation of foreigners is a norm; the reality is yet contrary to this claim. Foreigners were and still are invited from around the world to get settled in the American land; however the sociopolitical system of the country makes it impossible for them to be part of the society completely. There always persists a sharp line of demarcation between a local and the imported foreigner; the primary purpose of whose existence is to serve the local whites, willingly or unwillingly.