The Birth Certificate: An American History

The Birth Certificate: An American History is a comprehensive and engaging book that delves into the history of birth certificates in the United States, tracing their evolution over the past two centuries.

Written by award-winning historian Susan J.

Pearson, this book provides a fascinating biography of a seemingly mundane piece of paper that has played a central role in determining identity and citizenship in America. Through a skillful blend of social, political, and legal history, The Birth Certificate sheds light on the racial caste system in the U.S., highlighting how birth registration was used to enforce this system for both African Americans and Native Americans.

This book is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of American identity and the role that birth certificates have played in shaping it.