Purchasing the American Dream

Orientation to the Simulation

This simulation is a representation of buying a home in Chicago in 1960. As you interact with the simulation, it is important to remember that this is an interpretation of historical evidence.

The simulation allows you to take on the role of a white family or an African American family. You should take on both roles to get the full experience, but the order does not matter.

Within the simulation, "Negro" is used in place of "African American" because it was the term commonly used in 1960.

Throughout the simulation, you will see linked words. Pictures are also linked. Clicking on a linked word or picture will take you to an endnote. The endnote will be at the top of your screen. You'll see the word you clicked on in bold. These endnotes include the source of the information. Sometimes an endnote will include additional information related to the topic. To get back into the simulation, click on the "Back" link that follows each endnote.

To move through the simulation, click on the » located in the bottom right-hand corner. Sometimes the » will follow a narrative transition that suggests what the content of the next page will be. Other times the » will follow the options you are given in response to a question asked on that page. For example:

What would you like to do?

I'd like to begin the simulation. »

I'd like to go back to Home. »