While the modern concept of “race” did not exist in the ancient world, prejudices based on ethnicity, culture, and geography were still prevalent. Ancient civilizations, like the Greeks and Romans, often viewed non-citizens and those from different regions as inferior.

The age of exploration and colonialism saw European powers expand their territories worldwide. These empires often justified their domination using a mix of religious and pseudo-scientific reasons, positioning Europeans as superior to other groups. This era laid the groundwork for contemporary notions of race.

One of the most vile manifestations of racism was the transatlantic slave trade. Africans were forcibly taken from their homes, dehumanized, and sold as property. This system was justified through a deeply entrenched belief in white supremacy.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, some scientists tried classifying humans into distinct races based on physical characteristics. They often ranked these groups hierarchically, with whites usually at the top. These theories have been thoroughly debunked, but they left a lasting impact on societal views.

The mid-20th century saw a push against systemic racism, especially in the U.S. Activists like Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks fought against racial segregation and discrimination, leading to significant legal and societal changes.

While many legal barriers to racial equality have been removed, systemic racism persists in many forms. Racial profiling, economic disparities, and unequal access to education and healthcare disproportionately affect marginalized racial groups.

To truly understand and address racism, it’s crucial to educate, raise awareness, and actively challenge and dismantle racist structures and ideologies.