Even though not all major protests achieve their goals, they leave a lasting impact on society, frequently inspiring similar movements around the world and across generations.
Here are ten notable protests in modern history amid the demonstrations in Nigeria and United Kingdom.
1. Indian Farmers Protest (2020-2021)
The Indian farmers’ protest began in late 2020, with farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh protesting against three farm bills passed by the Indian government. The bills were seen as favoring large corporations over small farmers, leading to widespread demonstrations across the country. The protests, marked by massive rallies and a prolonged sit-in at the Delhi border, drew international attention and resulted in the repeal of the controversial laws in November 2021.
2. George Floyd and Black Lives Matter (2020)
3. Women’s March (2017)
The Women’s March, held on January 21, 2017, was one of the largest single-day protests in U.S. history. In response to Donald Trump’s inauguration as President, millions of people—primarily women but including supporters of all genders—gathered in Washington, D.C., and cities around the world. The march focused on advocating for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial equality, and became an important moment in the broader women’s rights movement.
4. Anti-Iraq War Protests (2003)
5. Tiananmen Square (1989)
6. The Baltic Way (1989)
On August 23, 1989, approximately two million people formed a human chain spanning over 600 kilometers across the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Known as the Baltic Way, this peaceful protest marked the 50th anniversary of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, which led to the occupation of the Baltic states by the Soviet Union. The demonstration was a powerful call for independence and played an influential role in the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union.
7. People’s Protest (1986)
The EDSA People Power Revolution of 1986 in the Philippines was a non-violent protest that led to the end of Ferdinand Marcos’s 20-year authoritarian rule. Over four days, millions of Filipinos gathered along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) in Metro Manila, calling for democratic reforms and an end to corruption. The peaceful uprising, marked by mass demonstrations, prayers, and human chains, resulted in Marcos fleeing the country and Corazon Aquino, the opposition leader’s widow, being inaugurated as president, restoring democracy in the Philippines.
8. Earth Day (1970)
The first Earth Day, held on April 22, 1970, was a major environmental protest that drew millions of Americans to advocate for environmental protection and raise awareness about pollution and ecological issues. Founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson, Earth Day played a crucial role in the establishment of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of key environmental legislation.
9. France in May (1968)
The May 1968 protests in France were a series of student-led demonstrations and general strikes that challenged the political and social order. The movement, which began at universities and spread to involve workers and intellectuals, called for educational reform, labor rights, and broader societal changes. The protests had a lasting impact on French society and politics.
10. The Salt March (1930)
