Racial segregation is the practice of separating people based on their race or ethnicity. This separation can occur in various areas of life, including schools, public transportation, housing, and workplaces. The goal of segregation is often to maintain a social hierarchy, where one racial group is privileged over others. Historically, racial segregation has been enforced through laws and policies, such as the Jim Crow laws in the United States. These laws institutionalized discrimination and limited the rights of African Americans and other minority groups. Segregation has significant social and economic impacts, contributing to inequality and social tension.