This chronology of significant events affecting race relations in the United States begins with the Plessy v. Ferguson decision on May 18, 1896, which approved the concept of separate but equal provisions for blacks and whites and thus set back the cause of real equality for decades, and continues through 2005. More than 200 entries recount decisions and events that had a national impact.

Entries include such topics as the American white imperialism of the early 20th century, milestones of the civil rights movement and the implications of the 2000 census. The chronology traces a trail through the most important characters, incidents, and ideas that shaped how Americans of varying racial backgrounds have interacted with each other.