Background Information
Social Issues in America: An Encyclopedia defines affirmative action as "a set of public policy initiatives designed to help rectify past, and prevent future, discriminatory practices." Use the following sources to learn more about relevant legislation, policies, and landmark affirmative action cases.
- CQ Researcher This link opens in a new windowReference tool/magazine that gives overviews of major topic areas (including affirmative action). Includes articles, lists of other resources, as well as Pro and Con sides for most topics.
- Encyclopedia of EducationBoth the print and online editions of this encyclopedia include detailed entries on education-related issues and affirmative action, particularly from the higher education perspective.
- International Encyclopedia of the Social SciencesProvides background information on the development of affirmative action in the United States as well as its application to various groups.
- American DecadesThis resource is divided up into decades of the 20th century. Readers can understand the social and economic aspects of each decade and also read about affirmative action in those time periods, staring with the 1960s on.