Here's why:
* Central Conflict: The novel revolves around the trial of Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of assaulting a white woman. The trial exposes the deeply ingrained prejudice and racism within the fictional Maycomb, Alabama community.
* Scout's Perspective: The story is narrated from Scout's perspective, a young girl who witnesses the trial and learns about the harsh realities of racial discrimination in the South. She begins to understand the world beyond her innocent childhood.
* Moral Lessons: The trial serves as a powerful commentary on the evils of prejudice and the importance of standing up for what's right, even in the face of societal pressure. Atticus Finch, Scout's father, embodies courage and integrity, even when facing ostracism for defending Tom Robinson.
* Historical Context: The novel is set in the 1930s during the Jim Crow era, a time of systemic racial segregation and oppression in the American South. This context deeply informs the events and themes of the story.
While other themes like innocence vs. experience, coming of age, justice vs. injustice, and compassion are also present, racial injustice acts as the core and the driving force behind the plot and the characters' journeys.