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Today in History: Supreme Court upholds racial segregation in Plessy case

5/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On May 18, 1896, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Plessy v. Ferguson, affirming the constitutionality of racial segregation in public transportation. The Court established the "separate but equal" doctrine, which legitimized discriminatory practices and reinforced systemic racism, shaping civil rights issues for decades to come. This decision marked a significant setback for racial equality in America.

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Story summary

On May 18, 1896, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Plessy v. Ferguson, affirming the constitutionality of racial segregation in public transportation. The Court established the "separate but equal" doctrine, which legitimized discriminatory practices and reinforced systemic racism, shaping civil rights issues for decades to come. This decision marked a significant setback for racial equality in America.