Whites

Whites is a term used to describe people of European ethnic descent, especially those with fair skin. It is often used in contrast with other "racial" color terms, such as black or yellow.

The definition of "white" has changed over time. For example, Ashkenazi Jews were often considered separate from the "white race" in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and are now generally considered white. Similarly, in Haiti light-skinned people of mixed African and European descent are considered white; in the United States, those same people are considered black.

Countries with white majorities include the nations of Europe, the United States, Canada, Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand.

As is the case with many racial groups, throughout history some whites have seen themselves as superior to members of other groups. This has been a factor in issues related to slavery and colonization, the latter of which sometimes was justified by the notion of the white man's burden.

See also:

• Caucasian