American History X is about the consequences of urban racism as a family is torn apart by hate. A graphic examination of extremism in America, the film follows one man's struggle to reform himself and save his younger brother after living a life consumed by violence and bigotry. His actions culminate in a brutal murder and his brother hands in a school book report on Mein Kampf. Enraged, the school principal demands a new paper, about the events that led to his older brother's incarceration.