Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Mahsa Amini was a young Iranian woman whose death during protests in Iran sparked widespread outrage. Her case brought attention to police brutality and human rights violations during the protests against economic hardships and government policies.
Related terms
Police Brutality: Police brutality refers to the excessive or unnecessary use of force by law enforcement officers, often resulting in physical harm or even death.
Human Rights Violations: Human rights violations are actions that infringe upon individuals' basic rights as recognized by international standards, such as freedom of speech, assembly, or protection from torture.
Social movements are collective efforts by groups of individuals seeking social or political change. They often arise in response to perceived injustices or grievances within society.