Final answer:
Race relations in the early twentieth and early twenty-first centuries have both similarities and differences, with advancements in civil rights in the twenty-first century but persistent racial disparities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Race relations in the early twentieth and early twenty-first centuries share both commonalities and distinctions. Racial inequality and discrimination were pervasive in both eras, yet the prevailing laws and societal attitudes underwent significant transformations.
During the early twentieth century, racial segregation and the imposition of Jim Crow laws underscored systemic racism. In contrast, the early twenty-first century witnessed strides in civil rights, exemplified by landmark events like the election of Barack Obama as the first African American President in 2008. While these advancements signal progress, persistent racial disparities and social injustices remain, challenging the notion of a fully realized post-racial society. The complex interplay of historical legacies and contemporary challenges underscores the ongoing struggle for racial equality despite notable positive shifts.