A History of Islamophobia in American Society
摘要
Islamophobia is often mistaken as a modern phenomenon, yet its roots are deeply embedded in Western history, shaped by centuries of conflict, colonial expansion, and cultural domination. This chapter critically examines the construction of Islamophobic narratives, tracing their evolution from medieval crusades and Orientalist representations to their entrenchment in contemporary American society. It analyzes how enduring stereotypes of Muslims as violent, exotic, or inferior have been continuously repurposed to justify exclusion, warfare, and systemic discrimination. Rather than receding, Islamophobia has intensified alongside global migration, political instability, and evolving security discourses, embedding itself in public policy, media representations, and everyday interactions. Using historical and critical cultural analysis, the chapter argues that Islamophobia is not merely a response to present-day events but a structural force deeply rooted in political and institutional systems. Recognizing the persistence of these historical patterns is essential for developing more informed and effective strategies to address Islamophobia’s enduring impact on Muslim communities today.