How did historical definitions of racial categories contribute to systemic racism and affect cultural identity in society?

Historical definitions of racial categories often grouped people based on physical traits like skin color, hair type, and facial features. This classification created a hierarchy where certain races were seen as superior to others, leading to discrimination and unequal treatment in many aspects of life, such as education, employment, and housing. For example, in the United States, the "one-drop rule" meant that anyone with even a small amount of African ancestry was considered Black, reinforcing negative stereotypes and limiting opportunities for those individuals. As these definitions became ingrained in laws and social norms, they shaped cultural identity by forcing people to identify in ways that often ignored their personal histories and experiences. This has led to lasting effects, where systemic racism continues to affect how people see themselves and each other in society today.