Final answer:
European Christians and scientists interpreted the curse Noah put on his son Ham in various ways. Some associated it with black skin and slavery, while others focused on the disobedience of Ham. These interpretations became conflated over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
European Christians and scientists interpreted the curse Noah put on his son Ham in various ways. Some Christians believed that the curse turned Ham and his descendants black, resulting in the justification of slavery. However, this interpretation was not explicitly mentioned in the Christian Bible. Other interpretations focused on the disobedience of Ham and his punishment, without associating it with skin color or slavery. Over time, these interpretations became conflated, leading to the belief that black skin was a curse and validation for the enslavement of African people.