Final answer:
The conflicting values of American ideals and slavery are evident in U.S. history, with racial disparities reinforced through policies such as the Three-Fifths Compromise. The philosophy of 'separate but equal' also contributed to systemic racial oppression. This points to the evolving nature of U.S. ideals demonstrating the struggle for Liberty, Equality, and Freedom.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ideals of the United States, such as Liberty, Equality and Freedom, indeed came into conflict with the concept of slavery, an institution which was diametrically opposed to these principles. The Declaration of Independence, penned by Thomas Jefferson, who himself was a slave owner, stated that 'all men are created equal' however, this belief was not extended to enslaved individuals, who were seen as property rather than people with inherent rights.
Race indeed played a key role in justifying this dichotomy. Individuals of African descent, a large number of whom were enslaved and seen as an inferior race, were counted only as three-fifths of a person as per the Three-Fifths Compromise in the constitution, which deepened racial disparities and maintained the power and control of the majority White class.
The concept of 'separate but equal', though promoting apparent equality, was used to justify segregation and further systemic racial oppression. In the years following the abolition of slavery, the fight for equal rights by African Americans has been ongoing, highlighting that the nation's ideals of Liberty, Equality, and Freedom have been a work in progress in U.S. history.
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