How did colonialism impact the historical definitions of racial categories and contribute to the development of racial stereotypes?

Colonialism greatly influenced how people defined race and created stereotypes about different groups. When European countries colonized various regions, they often viewed themselves as superior to the local populations, which led to the labeling of these groups as "inferior. " This mindset helped to establish rigid racial categories, where people were classified based on skin color, culture, and perceived abilities. For example, in the Americas, Indigenous peoples and Africans were often seen as less human, which justified their exploitation and mistreatment. These early definitions and stereotypes have persisted over time, shaping social attitudes and discrimination that are still evident today.