IRON CAGES presents a unique comparative analysis of white American attitudes towards Asians, Black, Native Americans, and Mexicans in the 19th century. This pathbreaking work offers a cohesive study of the foundations of race and culture in America. Takaki argues that the social health of the U.S. rests largely on the ability of all races and cultures to build on an established and positive legacy of cross cultural cooperation and understanding in the 21st century.IRON CAGES is an essential resource for students of ethnic history, and important reading for anyone interested in the history of race relations in America..