This text for high school seniors and college freshmen draws on ideas from the fields of history and sociology to examine racial and ethnic diversity in the US. The dual processes of pluralism and assimilation are a continuing theme across time periods, and the question of whether multiculturalism is a threat to American language and cultural norms is addressed. The chronological account covers aboriginal and colonial America through the industrial and information ages. The final chapter looks at factors influencing the future, such as interethnic and interracial marriages. This fourth edition incorporates data from the 2010 US Census and offers material on national concerns about illegal immigration. A new feature in each chapter examines recent events around the world that offer a global context for US multiculturalism. The book includes chapter-opening b&w photos, plus numerous maps and charts. Parillo teaches at William Paterson University. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)