http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pencil_test_(South_Africa)
The
pencil test is a method of assessing whether a person has
Afro-textured hair. In the pencil test, a
pencil is pushed through the person's hair. How easily it comes out determines whether the person has "passed" or "failed" the test.
This test was used to determine racial identity in
South Africa during the
apartheid era, distinguishing
whites from
coloureds and
blacks. The test was partially responsible for splitting existing communities and families along perceived racial lines. Its formal authority ended with the end of apartheid in 1994. It remains an important part of South African cultural heritage and a symbol of
racism.
(and no I don't support Wikipedia as a reputable source, but then I don't consider this type of garbage reputable).