The Existence of Prejudice: Past and Present Prejudice and discrimination have been a part of American history since before the Civil War. Throughout history, the government has tried to enact legislation to change the views of society and give equal rights to all people. However, we still find ourselves struggling for equality among all people even though the United States has made efforts to erase prejudice and discrimination from our society. Much has been written and discussed about judging people not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. Slavery was recognized by the Const