Mixing theories of the everyday with a wide range of case studies, this book explains the 'character' of ethnicity, from being a political tool of exclusion, to a source of meaning and solidarity, and the relationship between culture, power and identity. Combining theories of the everyday with empirical case studies, this book examines: the 'dual character' of ethnicity - as a political tool of exclusion and source of meaning/solidarity respectively; the relationship between culture, power and identity; the significance of historical/socio-economic contexts to ethnicity and everyday life. What is the relationship between culture and ethnicity? What is sociology's contribution to the interdisciplinary study of everyday ethnicity? How are ethnic groups constructed and encroached upon by (external) power structures? Do ethnic groups resist? How are power and agency exercised within ethnic communities? How do migration, 'diaspora-living' and marginalization affect people's sense of self? How do 'ethnic majorities' negotiate their dominant national identities in everyday life? How might 'identity' and its relation to cultural ideas and practices be conceptualized? What is the significance of everyday ethnicity among asylum seekers and host-populations in an era of globalization? This book addresses these important questions through a critical application of theories of the everyday to a series of case studies that include Travellers, the South Asian diaspora, contemporary Austria, and asylum seekers in 'Fortress Europe'. This book will provide an accessible and coherent introduction to the sociology of ethnicity and will be essential reading for undergraduate students on cultural studies, race and ethnic studies, and sociology courses.