This paper investigates the nature of ethnic prejudice and examines the treatment of four ethnic minorities in the United States--American Indians, blacks, Chinese Americans, and Mexican Americans. The hypothesis is that, despite inequality, ethnic minorities in the United States enjoy a better lot than ethnic minorities elsewhere. Two forms of prejudice against ethnic minorities are recognized--legal (involving qualification for citizenship and for jobs and educational opportunities) and personal (involving personal relations in neighborhood and community situations, for example). Several types of evidence are offered in support of the contention that ethnic minorities are relatively well off in the United States. These include general observation of historical events and contemporary society, literature reviews, analysis of census figures, citation of court decisions, and examination of activism among minority groups with regard to their civil rights. A brief overview of the discrimination/acculturation experiences of each of the four ethnic groups under study indicates that there are currently fewer ethnic biases and fewer obstacles to equality and full social participation in the United States than at any other time in history and that the United States compares well with other nations generally regarding treatment of ethnic minorities. Specific freedoms and privileges enjoyed by ethnic minorities in the United States, which are often not offered in other nations, include the right to practice their own religion, have their own customs, keep their own names, strive for a good education, and live in a relatively free class structure. The conclusion is that America has made great strides in wiping out flagrant legal and personal prejudice against ethnic minorities. (DB)