1898: In the South, black people are prevented from voting, and white people can physically attack black people with little fear of punishment.

1990s: Although some racism persists, the South offers more equal opportunities to African-American citizens than in the past. Southern cities such as Memphis, Atlanta, and Dallas have black mayors, and African Americans represent many Southern districts in Congress.

1896: In Plessy v. Ferguson, the United States Supreme Court gives official sanction to racial segregation, ruling that "separate but equal" public facilities are Constitutional.

1990s: President Clinton tells America that racial harmony and understanding should be the nation's greatest priority, and appoints a commission to study ways that the government can promote a more diverse society.

1898: The United States, still recovering from its civil war, is about to enter upon the world stage as an imperialist power by declaring war on Spain. The Spanish-American...