This document outlines an essay presentation on why historical context is needed when examining the social construction of race in Britain. It includes an introduction defining key terms like race, social construction, and historical context. It then outlines three main sections: [1] how imperialism and the slave trade influenced racial divisions; [2] the impact of immigration in the 1980s and rise of new racism/right wing politics; and [3] how both gender and race are socially constructed linked to British capitalism and colonialism. It concludes by restating the three arguments and showing they support the thesis. Sources to be cited include books, statistics, and newspaper articles.