This book discusses manifestations of hate crime in the United Kingdom which is considered chronologically. It analyses the social, economic, and political circumstances within which hate crime has occurred and evaluates the nature of the responses that have been put forward to address it. Although the focus of this work is on the post- 1945 period, the discussion that is put forward examines the earlier, historical roots of this problem which help to fashion a contemporary framework of analysis. Chapter 1 discusses the conceptualisation of hate crime and hate incidents within the UK. The chapter will draw upon contemporary hate crime scholarship to highlight continuing debates, issues, challenges, and points of contention within this emerging policy arena. It will consider the UK’s policy and legislative framework before addressing the historical roots of racially motivated violence, abuse and intimidation, and its legacy for an appreciation of recent developments.