The most up-to-date and comprehensive text available for the study of racial and ethnic relations in the United States. With the growing emphasis in courses on diversity in the United States, this book informs students about the nation's past and present multicultural realities. The book begins with an analysis of the stranger as a social phenomenon and then carries this theme throughout its study of all minority groups. Completely updated to reflect current demographic data, recent events, and new research, this books' highly readable style offers students an excellent introduction to race and ethnic relations.