Arab Spring
Political movementAbout
The Arab Spring was a series of protests and uprisings that swept across the Middle East and North Africa from late 2010 to early 2012. It began in Tunisia with the self-immolation of Mohamed Bouazizi, a street vendor protesting against corruption and economic hardship. This act sparked widespread demonstrations, leading to the ouster of President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali. The movement quickly spread to other countries, including Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Syria, and Bahrain, where protesters demanded democratic reforms, economic opportunities, and an end to authoritarian rule. The Arab Spring had varying outcomes across different countries. In Tunisia, it led to a democratic transition, while in Egypt, the military played a significant role after President Hosni Mubarak's departure. Libya and Yemen descended into civil war, and Syria's protests escalated into a full-scale conflict. Despite these varied results, the Arab Spring marked a significant shift in the region's political landscape, highlighting the power of popular movements in challenging entrenched regimes. The use of social media and pan-Arab networks facilitated the coordination and dissemination of information during the protests.
