Kidnapping facts for kids
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Kidnapping is when someone takes another person away and holds them against their will. It is a serious crime. This means the person is taken without their permission and cannot leave.
People might be kidnapped for different reasons. Sometimes, it is to ask for money, called ransom, in exchange for letting the person go. Other times, it is for other illegal purposes. Kidnapping can involve force, like using a weapon. But it can also happen if someone is tricked into going with the kidnapper, for example, thinking they are getting into a taxi.
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Why Does Kidnapping Happen?
Kidnapping often happens for money. Criminal groups can make a lot of money from ransom payments. Some groups, including terrorist organizations, use kidnapping to get money to fund their activities.
In the past, and even now in some parts of the world, kidnapping was used to get slaves. It was also used to get money through ransom. For example, in the 1800s, men were sometimes kidnapped to force them to work as sailors on merchant ships. This was called "shanghaiing."
Famous Kidnappings in History
Kidnapping has happened throughout history. One famous event in Finland involved the first President of the Republic of Finland, Kaarlo Juho Ståhlberg. In 1930, he and his wife were kidnapped by political extremists. They were taken from their home but were later released. This event shocked the country.
Another well-known story from ancient times is the abduction of Dinah. This story is found in ancient texts and has been shown in many artworks. It tells of a young woman being taken away, which caused a lot of trouble.
Related pages
Images for kids
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K. J. Ståhlberg (in the center-right), the first President of the Republic of Finland, and his wife at the Helsinki Central Station after their kidnapping. In the middle of picture their daughter Elli Ståhlberg stands behind them.
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The abduction of Dinah, (watercolor circa 1896–1902 by James Tissot)
See also
In Spanish: Secuestro para niños
