Super Short Summary

The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America by Richard Rothstein is a historical study revealing how government policies at all levels enforced residential segregation in the U.S., challenging the belief that it was due to individual choices. Rothstein details how laws and practices like zoning, redlining, and blockbusting created a significant racial wealth gap, affecting economic mobility and homeownership for African Americans. The book traces these practices from the early 20th century through to contemporary times, highlighting ongoing segregation issues despite civil rights advancements. Rothstein also proposes solutions for achieving meaningful desegregation. This book includes discussions of racial violence and systemic discrimination.