Who Do We Think We Are?

This text offers a provocative explanation of the force and place of race in modern history, showing that race and nation have a linked history. The author seeks to show the close historical connection of race and nation as each interrelates with the other in shaping and carrying social and institutional practices over many centuries. No nations, no races - pre-modern formations of authority and cultural identity, to 1500; the European discovery of race and nation, 1500-1650; the colours of gold - mercantile empires, great nations, reason and racism, 1650-1800; to the ends of the Earth - racism and nationalism rampant, 1800-1917; no holds barred - race and nation, 1918-1945; Cold War watershed, 1946-1990; epilogue - dusk and dawn, 1991-2000.