The Occupy Wall Street movement began in September 2011 as a protest against economic inequality and the influence of wealthy elites. Inspired by similar movements in the Middle East, Occupy spread globally through social media to criticize capitalism and call for reforms like limiting corporate political influence and tightening banking regulations. As the movement grew, some protests turned violent or faced crackdowns from authorities. By late 2011, local Occupy groups were discussing how to continue the movement in 2012 through new strategies and actions.