Historical Perspectives on Prejudice and Stereotyping

    When Europeans and Native Americans first had contact, each group knew little about the other. There were many differences between the two cultures-including clothing, language, foods, technology, 

and religious beliefs. Some of these

difference led to exchanges of knowledge

that helped both cultures. However, other

differences led to misunderstandings. 

     A misunderstanding about a group of

people can lead to prejudice and ​

stereotyping. Prejudice is an unfair

dislike of a group because of their

culture, race, or religion. Stereotyping is

unfairly thinking that all members of a group are a certain way based on their culture, race, or religion. ​

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​Prejudice and stereotyping can lead to

conflict. Some Europeans, for example,

viewed Native Americans as uncivilized.

They often forced Native Americans to

adopt European ways and religious

beliefs. Sometimes, Europeans also

enslaved Native Americans. Many Native

Americans resisted, often with violence.

Unfortunately, some groups of people

still face prejudice and stereotyping. In

recent times, differences between ethnic groups have led to violent conflicts in some regions and countries. However, people today are also connected in ways like never before. Business, education, and entertainment are just a few of the areas in which a global mix of different cultures can be seen.

  Because the world is so connected today, understanding other cultures is an important skill. Thinking about how someone from a different culture views an issue or problem can provide new knowledge. It may also lead to new solutions that reflect many different views.​

​Today, Americans represent a wide variety of cultures and cultural differences.