The Power to Destroy: A Hidden History of Race and Taxes in America

FAIN: FEL-273354-21

Andrew William Kahrl
University of Virginia (Charlottesville, VA 22903-4833)

Research and writing leading to a book and digital map on property taxation and race from Reconstruction through the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis.

The Power to Destroy tells, for the first time, the history of African American taxpayers from Reconstruction to the present and, through gripping personal stories of struggle and loss, reveals how discriminatory and inequitable local tax policies and practices undermined Black attempts to accumulate property and build wealth. Property ownership was central to Black visions of freedom following emancipation. But racist practices, invisible obstacles, and hidden traps made it difficult for them to hang on to their property. Of these, few were more powerful, or more quietly destructive, than the property tax. This project shows how discriminatory over-assessment of Black-owned property and manipulation of tax delinquency laws by local officials and private investors fueled Black land loss and shaped the landscape of racial inequality in 20th century America. It also shows how Blacks fought for fair and equitable tax laws and their rights as taxpayers and citizens.