American History X
American History X One of the elements that led to the development of the counter cultures seen in this movie was Derek’s father. Take the dinner scene for example. Derek is talking about how Sweeney is a really good teacher and how he looks up to him. His father keeps asking him questions about the book that he’s studying and Derek mentions that it’s about some black guy. Derek’s father then goes on about affirmative “black”tion (action) and how it’s stupid and how it’s taking more qualified white people and putting them out of a job just so a black guy that’s not as qualified can fill his place. His father gives him a nice long lecture, thus making an impact on Derek. Also, the death of his father was a BIG impact on Derek and the counter culture that he created for himself.