Dominant Group Ethnic Identity in the United States: The Role of “Hidden” Ethnicity in Intergroup Relations

Abstract

This article explores several issues pertaining to the nature of dominant group ethnicity in the United States. Dominant group ethnic identity tends to be less visible and less salient as a result of dominant status. This “hidden” ethnicity has resulted in the systematic un-derdevelopment of the study of race and ethnic relations with regard to the analysis of the role of dominant group ethnicity. In addition, the taken-for-granted nature of dominant group identity has facilitated attempts by the dominant group to maintain its dominant position in the system of ethnic stratification. Finally, this article examines the process through which dominant group ethnicity has evolved and assesses the consequences of these changes for race and ethnic relations in the United States.