Persecute

To persecute means to subject someone to hostility and ill-treatment, especially because of their race, political or religious beliefs, or sexual orientation. It involves systematic and sustained oppression, causing suffering and hardship. This often includes violence, discrimination, imprisonment, or even death, aimed at suppressing or eliminating a particular group or individual's expression of identity or belief. The intent behind persecution is to establish dominance, enforce conformity, or instill fear. Persecution can occur in various forms, from subtle social ostracization to violent state-sponsored campaigns.

Persecute meaning with examples

• Throughout history, religious minorities have often been persecuted for their beliefs. The Huguenots in 17th-century France were brutally persecuted, facing exile, imprisonment, and execution for their Protestant faith, highlighting the dangers of religious intolerance. This resulted in the loss of lives and caused deep-seated social divisions.
• Political dissidents were systematically persecuted by the totalitarian regime, suffering imprisonment, torture, and sometimes execution. Their freedom of speech was quashed, and their basic human rights denied because of their criticisms against the government. This had a chilling effect on dissent.
• In the 20th century, LGBTQ+ individuals were frequently persecuted and faced discrimination across many societies, including the loss of jobs, housing and sometimes, even violence and murder. Legal restrictions and social stigma combined to create a climate of fear and oppression, denying them equal rights.
• The innocent were consistently persecuted for supposed witchcraft during the Salem witch trials, accused on flimsy evidence. Innocent people were condemned, leading to unjust imprisonment, public humiliation, and the execution of several individuals. This highlighted the dangers of mass hysteria.
• The journalist was persecuted for publishing articles that exposed government corruption. The persecution included threats to life and family, intimidation, and legal harassment aimed at silencing the journalist, forcing them to live in exile for their safety.