What does the term "Jim Crow laws" refer to?

The term "Jim Crow laws" specifically refers to the set of state and local statutes that enforced racial segregation in the Southern United States from the late 19th century until the mid-20th century. These laws were designed to uphold white supremacy in various aspects of daily life, including schools, transportation, restrooms, restaurants, and public facilities. Such segregationist policies institutionalized the disparities and discrimination faced by African Americans, severely limiting their rights and freedoms.

The statutes stemmed from a post-Reconstruction effort to circumvent the civil rights gained by African Americans and were upheld until the Civil Rights Movement sought to dismantle them, leading to significant changes in legislation aimed at promoting equality. Their existence reflected societal attitudes of the time and had a profound and lasting impact on American society. Understanding this term is crucial for comprehending the historical context of racial relations in the U.S. and the struggles for civil rights.