How are hate crimes different from other crimes committed against individuals? Should the legal penalties be harsher? These questions and many more are explored in Hate Crimes, the first reference source on this important topic.

This volume includes an overview of legislation, statistics on hate crimes, and biographies of individuals combating violent extremist activities. A historical survey of the main targets of hate crimes--gays and lesbians, Jews, African Americans, and Asian Americans--is also featured.

* Provides biographies of individuals combating violent extremist activities