The term "Islamophobia" reflects the largely unexamined and deeply ingrained anxiety many Americans experience when considering Islam and Muslim cultures. Until recently, America has had only a small domestic Muslim minority and few connections to Muslim cultures with whom to build familiarity. In times of crisis, the long-simmering resentments, suspicions and fears manifest themselves. This book graphically shows how political cartoons--the print medium with the most immediate impact--dramatically reveal Americans demonizing and demeaning Muslims and Islam. It also reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of the Muslim world in general and issues a wake-up call to the American people.--From publisher description.

Overview of Western encounters with Muslims -- Symbols of Islam, symbols of difference -- Stereotyping Muslims and establishing the American norm -- Extreme Muslims and the American middle ground -- Moments.