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Racism and Colonialism

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Scotland took part in the colonial exploitation of parts of the African, South American and Asian continents. Racist beliefs and attitudes became widespread during this period.

They served to justify the exploitation of the 'black' indigenous people of these continents by 'white' western Europeans. In particular they were used to justify the slave trade.

These ideas have changed over time and been modified to fit into changing circumstances. They still exert a powerful influence in the minds and resultant behaviour of many Scots.