What is meant by the term segregation in U.S. history?

In U.S. history, segregation refers to the systemic separation of individuals based on race, ethnicity, or other characteristics, particularly in public spaces, schools, and housing. This practice was prevalent from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century, particularly in the Southern states, where Jim Crow laws enforced racial discrimination and unequal treatment. Segregation aimed to maintain white supremacy and social order, leading to significant civil rights struggles, which ultimately sought to dismantle these discriminatory practices through legal and social reforms. The landmark Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education in 1954 declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional, marking a pivotal moment in the fight for civil rights.