PSCI 216(S) Urban and Ethnic Politics and Policies (Offered 1998-99 only)*

The cities of America have been the site of much of this nation's political and social struggle during the twentieth century. From the beginning, the political and cultural fabric of everyday life has been shaped by waves of immigrants, first from Europe and China, then from the American South, from the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Asia and the Middle East. Initially, political parties often described as ethnic machines provided not only electoral support but basic social services, well before such functions were institutionally claimed by government as a result of the New Deal reforms. But these machines have been eroded more recently in this century, creating new challenges, as the path of upward mobility narrowed and as whites and more affluent residents of all races fled inner cities for the suburbs. This course will explore how politicians, activists and ordinary citizens have responded to issues including the urban/suburban boundary, gentrification, economic development, inequality, racism and environmental justice. We focus in particular on the present and future of multi-ethnic "rainbow coalitions" as an answer to urban government and politics. Requirements: class participation, two papers and a take-home final. No prerequisites. Open to first-year students with advanced placement credit in American politics. American Politics Subfield

Hour: G. RICHARDSON