1) Libya is currently experiencing political unrest, with the most violence occurring in the major cities of Tripoli and Benghazi between citizens and government forces. 2) The unrest was sparked by the arrest of relatives of prisoners killed in 1996 and high unemployment rates, leading citizens to demand democratic reforms and Gaddafi's resignation. 3) As the government refuses to give up power and vows to fight to the end, the country has descended into chaos and civil war seems imminent, with both sides experiencing significant loss of life.

1. By: Krishna VangipuramPeriod 1 Political Unrest in Libya

2. Map of LibyaLibya is located in Northern Africa and borders the Mediterranean Sea. Population is about 6 million, but also includes ancient tribes and clans in the rural countryside. Currently, the most violence and bloodshed is in the two largest cities, Tripoli (Capital) and Benghazi. Citizens have now taken over security headquarters at Benghazi, claiming the city.

3. Political BackgroundThe Barbary coast: 16th - 20th century AD: Control of modern-day Libya was disputed between the Spanish and the Turks. Turkish pirates forced the Spanish to retreat.24 December 1951- Soon after Italy takes over Libya, WWI causes more political chaos, and a Royal Monarchy comes in play in Libya. Independence won.In 1969, Military coup led by Moamar al Gaddafi, overthrows king and a dictatorship is established. 2011- Dictatorship formed and Gaddafi still has power.

4. Causes for ProtestBegan in Jan. of 2011 when rebels broke into a government “construction” project, due to severe delays. Government responded with a $24 billion dollar fund towards housing. Police arrest of relatives of victims in 1996 massacre at Abu Salim Prison when guards shot rioting prisoners. Created major animosity over the years.Unemployment rates and destitute poverty.

5. Main Issues PresentThe Libyan people want a new more liberating government in their own control and Gaddafi to resign. The government had been making false promises and had in short cheated the people for 43 years. The government refuses to give up power. Gaddafi’s son, Seif al-Islam, told the public that the government would fight until the “last man, the last woman, the last bullet.” The idea of Civil Warfare is very imminent in Libya, as citizens and the government are both losing many lives at this point.

6. The Bloody BrawlsGaddafi supporters brutally wounding protestors with automatic weapons and trucks.Local militias also join the fight, as Gaddafi also tries to win the support of rural tribes. Protesters continue to burn government buildings and police stations demanding Gaddafi to step down. Internet Connection was also completely shut down, and the gov. has now censored all the local journalists and newspapers. Local oil companies are relocating. The country is in complete chaos as schools, banks, offices, and airports are all closed.

7. Future Complications? Oil companies transferring employees may soon have a major effect on other countries’ economies.If Civil War does break out, more lives will be lost and troubles will not be resolved. The Government and the Protesters both want to fight to the end. Nationalism may provide inspiration to other countries near by. I believe the only solution is to make peace and establish new ideals. If not, another Reign of Terror may come into play. 