The Rising Tide of Color Against White World-Supremacy   By: Lothrop Stoddard (1883-1950)

In "The Rising Tide of Color Against White World-Supremacy," Lothrop Stoddard presents a deeply concerning perspective on race relations and demographic changes in the early 20th century. Published in 1920, the book explores Stoddard's theories on the dangers posed by what he perceived as the increasing power and influence of non-white populations around the world.

Stoddard's arguments are based on the widely-discredited pseudo-scientific concept of eugenics, which sought to establish racial hierarchies and propagate a notion of white superiority. Although it is important to acknowledge the historical context in which this work was written, it is disheartening to see the book's heavy reliance on racist and xenophobic rhetoric.

One of the main shortcomings of this work is Stoddard's failure to provide a nuanced view of the cultures and peoples he discusses. He generalizes entire ethnic groups and regions, pushing harmful stereotypes and promoting an alarmist perception of the world's changing demographics. This reductionist approach undermines any potential for constructive dialogue on race and ethnicity, perpetuating racist attitudes rather than offering meaningful solutions.

Furthermore, Stoddard's arguments often lack substantial evidence and rely on cherry-picked examples to further his thesis. By utilizing anecdotes and sweeping generalizations, he glosses over the complexities of global history and disregards the agency and resilience of marginalized communities. This one-sided approach undermines the credibility of his claims and weakens the overall cogency of the book.

Nevertheless, it is important to engage with works like "The Rising Tide of Color Against White World-Supremacy" as a means to understand the persistence of racist ideologies throughout history. By critically examining Stoddard's outdated theories and the contexts in which they emerged, readers can gain insight into the pernicious effects of such divisive thinking.

To fully comprehend the damage caused by discriminatory beliefs, it is essential to combine this historical analysis with contemporary perspectives from diverse voices. Through a multidimensional exploration of race relations and inclusivity, we can work towards fostering a society that celebrates diversity and recognizes the inherent value of all individuals.

In conclusion, "The Rising Tide of Color Against White World-Supremacy" is a problematic work that perpetuates racist ideas and promotes an intolerant worldview. While it may offer some insight into the mindset of the time, it lacks the nuance and comprehensive research required for a credible analysis. Readers are encouraged to approach this book critically and explore alternative, inclusive narratives that contribute to a more empathetic and harmonious future.

First Page:

Accordingly, my attention was thenceforth largely directed to racial matters. In the preface to an historical monograph ("The French Revolution in San Domingo") written shortly before the Great War, I stated: "The world wide struggle between the primary races of mankind the 'conflict of color,' as it has been happily termed bids fair to be the fundamental problem of the twentieth century, and great communities like the United States of America, the South African Confederation, and Australasia regard the 'color question' as perhaps the gravest problem of the future... Continue reading book >>