GlossariesGCSE GlossariesGCSE History GlossaryDiscrimination

Discrimination - GCSE History Definition

Reviewed by: Zoe Wade

Published

In GCSE History, discrimination means treating people unfairly because of things like their race, gender, religion, or background, instead of judging them on who they are as individuals. Discrimination has happened in many different time periods. For example, in Nazi Germany, Jewish people were persecuted under Hitler’s rule, losing their rights and later being targeted in the Holocaust. In the USA in the 1950s and 1960s, Black Americans faced racism and segregation, which led to the Civil Rights Movement. Studying discrimination helps students understand how unfair treatment has caused conflict, injustice, and protests throughout history.

Need help reaching your target grade? Explore our notes, questions by topic and worked solutions, tailor-made for GCSE History.

Explore GCSE History

Share this article

Zoe Wade

Reviewer: Zoe Wade

Expertise: History Content Creator

Zoe has worked in education for 10 years as a teaching assistant and a teacher. This has given her an in-depth perspective on how to support all learners to achieve to the best of their ability. She has been the Lead of Key Stage 4 History, showing her expertise in the Edexcel GCSE syllabus and how best to revise. Ever since she was a child, Zoe has been passionate about history. She believes now, more than ever, the study of history is vital to explaining the ever-changing world around us. Zoe’s focus is to create accessible content that breaks down key historical concepts and themes to achieve GCSE success.

The examiner written revision resources that improve your grades 2x.

Join now