Why so many geographic sites in the US still have racist names

Around the country, school, county and even bird names are being reconsidered and changed, as greater attention is paid to their origins and the racism the names may invoke. But many sites still feature outdated racial descriptors and more members of the public are calling attention to it.

In this same tradition, multiple areas have reconsidered geographical names containing the word "negro" -- a term once considered socially acceptable, but now viewed as outdated and offensive by many. In Texas, 16 such names are finally being changed, following approval by a federal board in June. In Vermont, residents and politicians are pushing to change the name of Negro Brook, with the only holdup being what to call it instead. It's not just negro; other offensive terms are also used in place names across the American landscape. But why were these names created in the first place, and why have they endured?