Persecution means treating someone cruelly or unfairly over a long period of time, usually because of who they are or what they believe. When a government persecutes people for their religion, it might prevent them from worshiping, take away their property, or even imprison them. When people face persecution for their political beliefs, they might lose their jobs, be threatened, or be forced to leave their country.

Persecution is different from a single mean act or argument. It describes sustained, systematic mistreatment. Throughout history, groups have faced persecution for their ethnicity, religion, or ideas. The Pilgrims came to America to escape religious persecution in England, where they faced punishment for their beliefs. Jewish people have faced persecution in many times and places simply for being Jewish.

When you hear that someone fled their country to escape persecution, it means they left to find safety and freedom. Many countries, including the United States, offer protection to people escaping persecution, recognizing that everyone deserves to live without fear of being targeted for their identity or beliefs.