Defined as a shade of hair that occurs in less than 1% of the world's population, the rarest hair color in the world is red hair. Its distinctive appearance, caused by a mutation in the MC1R gene, has played a significant role throughout history.
Red hair has been associated with both empowerment and persecution. In ancient times, it was seen as a sign of divinity or rebellion. However, during the Middle Ages, redheads were often accused of witchcraft, leading to discrimination and violence.