To analyze the film American History X, one would need to dig deep, and sift through the roots of the film to locate the seeds of hate planted in Derek as a youth. To bring forth the factors that shaped Derek's personality would reveal who is brother is to become, and why. Yet in the end, it will strike the viewer as being ironic that through all of Derek's hatred, he changes his views completely. Unfortunately, his influence on his brother to become the same person makes it to late for Danny, as he becomes the target of a tragedy provoked by his mislead point of view.
             Let's start at the beginning, at the flashbacks of Derek's youth, where the first signs of his innocence being influenced negatively show. It becomes apparent to the viewer where the first signs of his hatred come from. During the flashback where Derek and the rest of the family are sitting having dinner, the subject of Derek's school studies come up. He begins to speak of a book his teacher has assigned to read, dealing with African American subjects. Right off the bat, his father begins to shoot down the idea that Derek at first supports about interracial relations. Now it becomes evident where the first spark of Derek's flame for hatred of different races becomes lit. From his father, his own flesh and blood, and his main mentor and guide in life, he begins to think about any and all negative aspects of the black race. From there, the hatred that ends up consuming Derek is passed down.
             Shortly after, his father is killed by a black man while putting out a fire. Being killed while putting out a fire by someone of the black race just added fuel to the fire burning in Derek. It becomes clear from his own words while being interviewed by the news on the death of his father what a strong dislike he has produced. Not only for that one member of the black race that killed his father, but for anyone wi
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