What is the term for people of mixed white and black heritage?

The term for people of mixed white and black heritage is "mulatto." This designation originated during the period of slavery in the Americas, particularly in the context of the United States and colonial societies. Mulatto individuals typically arose from unions between enslaved Africans and European colonists or their descendants. The term reflects the historical racial classifications that emerged as a result of European colonization and the transatlantic slave trade.

Understanding the social implications of the term "mulatto" also requires recognition of the complex racial dynamics that influenced societal structures and relationships in history. These classifications often carried social stigma and were created within a context of systemic racism and inequality. Being classified as a mulatto could dictate one’s social standing, legal rights, and opportunities.

Other terms such as Hispano, mestizo, and Creole refer to different cultural and racial identities. Hispano generally relates to Spanish heritage, mainly in the context of Latin American cultures. Mestizo refers specifically to individuals of mixed European (usually Spanish) and Indigenous American heritage, primarily in Latin America. Creole usually denotes individuals of mixed European and African ancestry in colonial contexts, particularly in the Caribbean and South America, but its definitions can vary depending on regional histories.