A defining characteristic of post-1865 American literature is the recurring motif of repression among minority groups in the United States. The literature provided in the Heath Anthology reflects minority citizens such as African Americans, Hispanics, and women. Twentieth-century American literature serves as a critical lens to examine the social injustices faced by minority groups. Minority artists use literature to examine and redefine their predetermined role in society. Critically acclaimed African American scholar, W. E. B. DuBois, challenges the conflict of minority groups (particularly African Americans) in the United States. DuBois sets the stage for other African American literary artists to use literature as a means of self-expression and explanation. According to DuBois's The Souls of Black Folk, African Americans have developed two identities in American society: “This double consciousness, this sense of always looking at oneself through the eyes of others, of measuring one's soul by the yardstick of a watching world with amused contempt and pity. One always feels his duplicity: an American, a Negro; two souls, two thoughts, two unreconciled efforts; two ideals at war in a dark body, whose stubborn strength alone keeps it from being torn to pieces” (DuBois 527). Dubois supports the claim that African Americans are forced to have two identities in American society; they are not encouraged to embrace their heritage, but are encouraged to assimilate to the white man's definition of acceptance. A common element in DuBois' call to action speech is the idea of ​​invisibility and suppression among minorities. DuBois is well aware of the effects that occur during assimilation into the culture and warns others...... half of the document ......tury focuses on the social injustices that plague American society. The literary texts successfully analyze individual movements (the writer's work) that attempt to have a broader political impact by destroying the concept of assimilation and embracing cultural heritage among various minority groups in the United States. Works Cited DuBois, WEB “The Souls of Black Folk." The Heath Anthology of American Literature, Concise Edition. Ed. Paul Lauter, et. Al. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2014. 526-541. Hong Kingston, Maxine." Woman with No Name." The Heath Anthology of American Literature, Concise Edition. Ed. Paul Lauter, et. Al. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2014. 1324-1334.Pietri, Pedro. “Puerto Rican Obituary.” The Heath Anthology of American Literature, Concise Edition. Paul Lauter, et. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2014. 1310-1317.