Conflict and uncertainty can make life difficult for minorities in the United States. As we’ve seen, events of the last decade have led some to be suspicious of American Moslems. This isn’t new in our history. During the U.S. Civil War, it was Jewish Americans who came under suspicion. Adding to existing prejudices were broad accusations of trading with Confederates and undermining the Union. Things came to a head in December 1862 when U.S. Major General, and future President, Ulysses S.
