Racism in the Suburbs
In Racism in the Suburbs, historian Lucy Worsley investigates how a Black family was targeted when they moved into Levittown. Old footage shows the prejudiced views of white people living there. When houses were first sold, a covenant was in place, stating that houses could only be sold to whites. Racist policies like these were not outlawed until 1968. This video is excerpted from BBC's American History's Biggest Fibs with Lucy Worsley, in which Worsley reveals the myths and manipulations behind American history.
Advisory: Contains discriminatory language.Lesson Express
Q: Why was the Black family harassed for moving into Levittown?
A: The Black family was harassed because of the racial segregation policies that were in place at the time. Levittown, like many suburban areas in the 1950s, had racial terms in place that restricted non-white families from buying homes.
Q: Why did the citizens of Levittown have issues with Black people living in their community?
A: Many citizens of Levittown were influenced by racial prejudice and feared that allowing Black people to move into their community would lower property values and disrupt the social order. These thoughts were views fueled by racism and fear of change.
Q: Why do you think the Racial Covenant was enacted?
A: The Racial Covenant was enacted to enforce racial segregation and prevent Black families from living in predominantly white neighborhoods. It was a way to maintain economic and social power among white families, ensuring that they had access to better housing and resources while denying these opportunities to Black families and other minorities.
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