The nineteenth-century english scientist sir francis galton believed that

The correct answer is superior intelligence is biologically inherited

He believed that if your parents are smart you will be smart as well because it would transfer to you genetically. He and a coworker of his devised tests to prove this. This was problematic because it enabled things like belief that countries with traditionally higher levels of education and intellect would be superior to those who didn't have the same opportunities.

They were constantly being overlooked as a people and were being controlled by people who weren't really native to their homeland.