How have historical events shaped the understanding of racial categories in contemporary society?

Historical events have played a significant role in shaping how we understand racial categories today. For example, during the era of colonialism, people were often categorized based on skin color and ethnicity to justify the exploitation and oppression of certain groups. This led to the establishment of social hierarchies, where lighter-skinned individuals were often seen as superior. Over time, these ideas became ingrained in society, influencing laws, education, and even personal relationships. A concrete example is the civil rights movement, which challenged these racial categories and fought for equality, leading to a more nuanced understanding of race that recognizes the complexity of identity beyond just skin color.