Miscegenation refers to the interbreeding of people from different racial or ethnic groups. This term is often used in discussions about the social and legal implications of interracial relationships and marriages. Historically, many societies have imposed restrictions on such unions, reflecting broader issues of racism and social hierarchy. In the United States, miscegenation laws were enacted in various states until the mid-20th century, prohibiting interracial marriage. The landmark Supreme Court case, Loving v. Virginia in 1967, ultimately declared these laws unconstitutional, affirming the right to marry regardless of race and promoting greater acceptance of interracial relationships.