Why people recommend it
Crania Americana by Samuel George Morton is an 1839 historical and scientific text notorious for attempting to classify human races through cranial measurements. During an episode of The Book Review titled The History of Race and Racism in America, aired on July 18, 2024, guest Ibram X. Kendi recommended the historical publication for readers seeking a deeper and more rigorous understanding of racial ideologies. Kendi noted that while the book is not necessarily a fluid or easy read, it remains an important historical artifact published by Samuel Morton in 1839. The guest pointed toward this primary source material to illustrate the historical foundations of scientific racism and how historical actors attempted to codify prejudice through pseudo-scientific methods. By bringing attention to this text, the discussion provided historical context regarding the evolution of racist thought in America, serving as a critical resource for those examining the roots of systemic inequality and racial categorization.
Who recommended it
- Ibram X. Kendi Recommended
Ibram X. Kendi — 1 mention
“I would say crania America but it's not necessarily a fluid read many of these other books but I think that was published in 1839 by Samuel MO”