RESUMEN
This article explores the racial prerequisite cases, which were dubious court decisions that attempted to rationalize pseudo-scientific evidence and common knowledge as reasons for who could and could not be considered for, and who was ultimately denied, U.S. citizenship. These cases are historical antecedents of the current anti-Asian racism that has become even more pronounced as a result of COVID-19. Social studies educators can leverage these court cases to teach about controversial and relevant issues that connect to current immigration and citizenship policies, as well as provide historical context for contemporary discussions about race and racism.
RESUMEN
This article explores the racial prerequisite cases, which were dubious court decisions that attempted to rationalize pseudo-scientific evidence and common knowledge as reasons for who could and could not be considered for, and who was ultimately denied, U.S. citizenship. These cases are historical antecedents of the current anti-Asian racism that has become even more pronounced as a result of COVID-19. Social studies educators can leverage these court cases to teach about controversial and relevant issues that connect to current immigration and citizenship policies, as well as provide historical context for contemporary discussions about race and racism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of Social Studies is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)