Viva Revolution!

The age of Revolution is a period of time that took place during the 1700 and 1800s. Some would say that we have entered our own modern period of revolution. Lets take a look back at some of the revolutions that occurred during 2011. A revolution that started during 2011 and ended during 2012, is the famed Egyptian revolution. It began with peaceful protests — Egyptians were just trying to make Egypt democratic. Millions of citizens went on strikes refusing work until better treated. Before we know it Egypt’s corrupt president, Hosni Mubarak ordered the army to fire on unarmed protestors. Due to ever-growing pressure from his own people and the U.N, Hosni Mubarak resigned on February 11th 2012.

Another revolution is the Libyan revolution that started on February 15th 2011.  As early as 2010 the U.N. was receiving reports that Libya was the most censored country in the Middle East. Ruled by Muammar Gaddafi, a cruel dictator who seized power in the 60s, Libya received much attention from the international community. With an uprising from guerilla forces and support from the U.N, the rebellion ended on October 23rd 2011. The last of  “rebellions” on our list (more like civil disobedience) is Occupy Wall Street. It began in New York, people protesting   corporate greed and unfair taxation. The movements slogan “ We are the 99%” became a battle cry for many, for others it was a threat to their wealth. OWS soon spread around the nation with protest held in California, Louisiana, Alabama and many others. It did not only stop at a nationwide level it soon spread to London, Berlin, Sydney and many countries in Africa. The protests were splintered however and by fall of 2011 they were being shit down. Pepper Spray, riot shields, and flash bangs soon became commonplace. By December of 2011 the movement was effectively dead. History repeats itself; we may have entered a new age of revolution or just an insignificant period in human history. Whatever it is, whenever people are treated unfairly they will rebel.

Our resolve is clear. The people of Libya must be protected


“A long war.” That is what Libyan Dictator Moammar Gadhafi has promised the Allied Forces and the rebel groups opposing him.

On Saturday, March 19th, 2011, U.S. and British warships and submarines launched what is to be the first stage of a large scale assault on Gadhafi’s forces. 112 missiles were fired on various targets near the coast, followed by an aerial assault on the opposition’s air force.

In the eyes of the rebels, the help is a god-send. While only a few days before their resistance seemed to be failing against Gadhafi’s superior technology and military, many have found a new fire inside their hearts.

“I feel like in two days max we will destroy Gadhafi,” said Ezzeldin Helwani, a member of the rebellion’s forces.

While the rebels rejoice and rally even more support, Gadhafi remains firm in his vow to fight on. He has opened up military weapons depots to all of his supporters, including civilians.

While many Libyans have joined with the rebels to fight Gadhafi, he still retains a powerful base of supporters. One woman told a reporter, “He is our father, and we will be with him to the last drop of blood.”

“We cannot stand idly by when a tyrant tells his people there will be no mercy,” said President Obama. “Our consensus was strong, and our resolve is clear. The people of Libya must be protected.”

Protection is what America and its allies are offering, but with Gadhafi refusing to back down, it may indeed come down to the last drop of blood.

Let’s hope not.