Racial Inequality in the 20th Century US

This course covers the evolution of racial inequality in the US, with a focus on Black-white economic disparities. We will study racial gaps in income and wealth over the 20th century and examine the role of public policy in mitigating or exacerbating this inequality. Students will come away with an understanding of key episodes of racial progress and will hone their data science skills by analyzing historical data to make evidence-based proposals for reducing group-based inequality. Finally, the course will build students' research literacy by supplementing readings of technical papers with policy briefs, podcasts, and op-eds.