The Invention of Race

Specials | Feb 21, 2018

Compiled by Award-winning producer John Biewen from the "Seeing White" series. The Invention of Race traces the development of racial and racist ideas from the ancient world - when there was no notion of race - up to the founding of the United States as, fundamentally, a nation of and for white people.

The Invention of Race is adapted from several episodes of the more in-depth 14-part series "Seeing White" on the Scene on Radio podcast.

Airs Saturday, June 27 at 2pm on WNYC 93.9 FM and AM 820 

Additionally, the New York Public Radio Archives is sharing some of the department's leading preservation work, series and sonic artifacts concerning African-American history. You can explore it here.

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

Are Waymo robotaxis actually safer than NYC Uber and taxi drivers?

A new analysis concludes Waymos were involved in more serious crashes per mile than the city’s for-hire fleet.
Gothamist |

Rahm Emanuel Says Israel’s Path Is “Not Sustainable Politically.” Plus, the Critic Richard Brody on “The Odyssey”

A likely Democratic presidential candidate says the U.S. must end unconditional support for Israel. Emanuel explains his proposal for Middle East peace, and his position on trans rights.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |

From Subpoenas to Cockroaches: Journalist Intimidation 101

Plus, a documentary about the eBay stalking scandal.
On the Media |

Join us for a live series on what it means to make New York more affordable

We’re holding community events across New York City, “In Conversation: The Affordability Series,” through the rest of the year to explore real solutions to issues affecting millions of New Yorkers.
Gothamist |
YOU ARE ONLINE