Protests and demonstrations

Protests and demonstrations are public shows of discontent or support for a particular cause. They usually involve large numbers of people gathering in one place to voice their collective opinion, either through speeches, chants, signs, banners or marches. Protests can be peaceful or violent depending on the intentions of the participants and may range from simply voicing an opinion to taking direct action such as civil disobedience.

History
In antiquity protests were often held outside government buildings where citizens would show up en masse with grievances against the ruling power. In the Middle Ages they were used by religious reformers to rally followers behind them while during Europe’s Age of Enlightenment protestors became increasingly organized in order to push for political change. During this period mass protest was seen as more effective than violence due largely its ability to gain publicity which could then be used as leverage when negotiating with authorities.

The 20th century saw some major changes in how governments responded to protests including increased surveillance measures designed specifically targeting protesters along with harsher punishments aimed at deterring further dissent . The rise of modern media also allowed news outlets greater access when covering these events resulting in wider coverage both domestically and abroad thus ensuring that if a protest is successful it will soon become known worldwide.. This has resulted in many countries attempting censure those who wish speak out against them leading some nations implementing legislation banning certain forms demonstration altogether such as Russia’s 2012 “Foreign Agent Law” which requires any group receiving funding from abroad register itself foreign agent organization before engaging any form activism within country’s borders .

Despite increasing repression across globe however there have been numerous instances throughout history whereby individuals collectively managed overcome odds achieve tangible results ranging from small scale victories like students successfully pressuring universities implement eco-friendly policies all way larger movements toppling oppressive regimes overturning decades long authoritarian rule . As result today protests remain important tool activists around world utilize make sure their voices heard even face adversity , allowing masses bring about much needed change society without resorting violence avoidable bloodshed