The Constitution and Race Author:Donald E. Lively Race, as this book demonstrates, has been a factor in the Constitution's framing, ratification, and development. Examined specifically and in detail are: the accommodation of slavery to create a viable republic; the Union's experience with and eventual undoing by slavery; reconstruction of the nation pursuant to seminal principles of racial equa... more »lity; persisting efforts to limit or defeat constitutional provisions for equality and opportunity; the desegregation mandate and its devolution; and modern problems in accounting for a legacy of racial discrimination and disadvantage. This book is rich in its analysis of the Supreme Court's response to society's ambiguities, concerns, and conscience in the matters of race.« less