The political behavior and orientations of 1027 fifth-grade students in 18 inner-city, racially segregated, low socioeconomic status elementary schools were examined in two Michigan cities in 1970. The political effects of racial composition were different for each race. As elementary schools became increasingly black, average student political orientations were reported as more nonsupportive of the political system, and political behavior was more activist. In those schools where classes were increasingly white, political orientations were more supportive, and political behavior was less activist. Students of both races in predominantly black schools knew more about political problems and candidates and were more skeptical of government and political authority than students of both races in predominantly white schools. This research shows that black, racially segregated, low socioeconomic status schools are positively beneficial for black and white students when using the criteria of participant political behavior. It may mean that the political effect of racial integration of black people is to depoliticize the black American people, which, unfortunately, for many Americans is a desirable goal. (Author/JM)