Libyan Revolution
The longtime dictator of the North African country, Libya, forty-two year old Moammar Quadaffi has pushed his people over the edge. The people of Libya, also referred to as Rebels, are finally taking a stand against their leader and are fighting for a democracy and more freedom for their dictated country. They have been under the dictatorship of Quadaffi for over four decades. Their main goal and target is to remove if not kill Quadaffi. It started back around August 15 when breakouts and protests against the government began to occur. The pro-government people did not like this one bit and they began to act toward the Rebels in a violent manner by lighting towns, buildings, and homes on fire and by murdering them. But, the Rebels still advanced forward in their attacks and protests. On February 21/22 Quadaffi made two comments that have been popularly shown. On the 21 he blamed the United States for his problems with his people and stated that he’ll “execute the rats.” The very next day he made a comment saying he would fight to his “last drop of blood” meaning that he would not surrender and he was going to fight back for his power of Libya. On February 25 the Rebels had a big milestone and took control of some key cities in Libya; Misurata, Ajabaja, Sirte, Tobruk, and Zawiya. But, the Libyan people were and are not fighting this battle alone. An organization called the North Atlantic Treaty Organization was on their side. NATO was a group of 28 countries from North America and European areas. Some major countries in this organization are Germany, France, Romania, Greece, Italy, Norway, Canada, AND the United States! The purpose of this group is to aid its allies in a time of military or political predicaments. NATO felt if they hadn’t gotten involved in this revolution all the Rebels would be dead eventually and there would be no hope left in the middle east for freedom. NATO helped the Rebels in a variety of ways. A few examples are…..on March 17 they distributed a no fly zone over Libya and issued an “all necessary measurements” law meaning that they could do what they had to do to help the Libyan people. On April 30 they killed Quadaffi’s youngest son and three of his grandchildren. On June 27 the International Criminal Court set out a warrant for the arrest of Quadaffi and his two other sons, Saif and Mohammad. So, as you can see they were of great help to the Rebels. As the days, weeks, and months advanced the Rebels got stronger and stronger as they captured more and more towns and defeated more pro-governists.
Recently on August 21, probably the biggest milestone yet, the Rebels seized the green square within Tripoli, the countries capitol. And eventually had in their hands 95% of the capitol itself! NATO was also apart this by sending explosive missles at the capitol as seen in the video. Also on this day they detained Quadaffi’s two sons. Quadaffi himself is still thought to be in hiding if he is not already dead. The last call they heard him make were to his guards as the Rebels approached Tripoli. But, until he is captured, found, or proven killed, he still holds the power over Libya.
I personally think that the Rebels are doing the right thing in this case. If I had been under a crazy guys power like Quadaffi for all my life, I would definitely take a stand if I had the chance. As for the United States and other countires getting involved? I would have to semi-agree with them too. I mean I think they did make a difference and are good for keeping their word. Could it possibly start up something between us and another country? My guess is not since it’s all the people of the country vs. one small government who in my opinion is about to be overthrow here soon.
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NATO
http://foxnewsinsider.com/2011/08/22/timeline-of-the-conflict-in-libya/
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