Leah Williams

Professor Fields

UWRT-1102-012

30 March 2017

American History X Part 2

1. Dereks claims are valid. If a kid can be molded when theyre in a vulnerable

state/situation, they will believe scapegoat claims or accept help offered, which is

what sounds like was Dereks personal situation.

2. If hes better solo or biting his tongue depends on what you mean by course of

action. Its fortunate that Derek was able to drop his prejudices because it helped him

develop ethically and morally, but he wouldnt have (literally) been fucked up, at least

by his allies had he bit his tongue.

3. Yes, theres white privilege. White people have more opportunities and easy ways out

just because this country was built on white people stepping what/who they deemed

insubordinate. This is so relevant; people are racially profiled and/or framed unfairly.
4. Even his racist beliefs were at least partially stemmed on trying to help his racially

superior family and revenge for his fathers death, but his change in morals and

character show a more caring and compassionate Derek towards his family. His

leaving the neo-Nazis proves to be more beneficial to Dereks character, perhaps his

family his family in connection.

5. It shows theyre ready to move on and put that part of their lives and ideals behind

them, or at least its a start.

6. They can be incredibly toxic. Regardless of the extent of racism that is said, even the

smallest statements can leave impressions and mindsets, especially because kids dont

know any better and trust what those in their sphere of influence believe.
7. Hatred never fixes things and people shouldnt be unfairly generalized. Im glad

Danny was able to realise that despite aspects of his upbringing. I appreciated the

movie, but truthfully didnt vibe with it too much. However, I found that it was a
necessary perspective and interesting movie to show the class because it is thought-

provoking. But also fuck that ending.