The Baha'i faith is a religion founded in Persia (modern-day Iran) in the 19th century. It is based on the teachings of the prophet Bahá'u'lláh and emphasizes the spiritual unity of all humankind. The faith has spread to more than 200 countries and territories, and its followers number in the millions. Baha'i beliefs include the essential unity of all religions, the equality of men and women, and the elimination of prejudice and racism.