Interracial marriage bans, also known as anti-miscegenation laws, were laws that prohibited interracial marriages between people of different races. These bans have a long and troubled history in the United States, particularly in relation to Black individuals.

During the colonial era, interracial relationships were often frowned upon, but it was not until the 17th and 18th centuries that specific laws were enacted to ban interracial marriage. These laws were primarily aimed at preventing Black and White individuals from marrying, as interracial unions were seen as a threat to white supremacy and racial purity.

In many states, anti-miscegenation laws were used to uphold the system of slavery and later, segregation. These laws reinforced the notion of racial hierarchy and were used to maintain the social and economic power of White Americans over Black Americans.

The Supreme Court case Loving v. Virginia in 1967 marked a turning point in the legal history of interracial marriage bans. The case involved Mildred and Richard Loving, a Black woman and a White man who were sentenced to prison for violating Virginia's anti-miscegenation law. The Supreme Court ruled that laws prohibiting interracial marriage were unconstitutional, effectively striking down such bans nationwide.

Despite the end of anti-miscegenation laws, interracial couples continued to face discrimination and stigma in American society. It was not until the late 20th century and early 21st century that interracial marriage became more widely accepted and normalized in the United States.

Today, interracial marriages are common and interracial families are an integral part of American society. The history of interracial marriage bans serves as a reminder of the deep roots of racism in the country and the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance.