Most of the dilemmas, contradictions, and inconsistencies that beset the nation's schools relate either directly or indirectly to the ambiguous, overworked twin concepts of cultural pluralism and the great American melting pot. Examination of the ethnic history of the United States reveals that those minorities urging cultural pluralism were effectively excluded from the benefits of American society while less visible minorities were being assimilated. These excluded minorities are now trying a different route to equity, without realizing that the methods they are using have historically resulted in the dissolution of the cultural groups using them. The traditional American concern for equality that underlies efforts at cultural pluralism also underlies many other no less complex movements in education; those for equal opportunity, compensatory education, desegregation, bilingual and bicultural education, and affirmative action. The philosophical roots and likely outcomes of these movements are explored in this document. (Author/PGD)