2019 Protests & Revolutions Events — Verified Historical Highlights
2019 Protests & Revolutions Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 07 Jan Sudan protests lead to mass arrests: On January 7, 2019, widespread protests erupted in Sudan, leading to mass arrests by security forces. The demonstrations were sparked by rising bread prices and economic hardships, marking a significant challenge to President Omar al-Bashir's government. source: aljazeera.com
- 21 Jan Venezuela National Guard Mutiny Suppressed: The Venezuelan government successfully quelled a potential mutiny within the National Guard. The military characterized the attempted uprising as a treasonous act motivated by 'obscure interests tied to the far right'.
- 22 Jan Venezuelan Protests Turn Deadly: Violent protests in Venezuela resulted in the tragic death of a 16-year-old boy in Caracas and three additional fatalities in Estado Bolivar, highlighting the ongoing political unrest in the country.
- 02 Feb Venezuela's political crisis deepens: Venezuela's political crisis intensified as protests escalated and international tensions rose over the legitimacy of the Maduro government. source: aljazeera.com
- 07 Feb France-Italy diplomatic tension: On February 7, 2019, France recalled its ambassador to Italy in response to remarks made by Italian Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio, who met with French 'yellow vest' protesters. This diplomatic move highlighted the strained relations between the two European nations. source: reuters.com
- 09 Feb Venezuelan political crisis escalates: On February 9, 2019, the political crisis in Venezuela intensified as opposition leader Juan Guaidó called for mass protests against President Nicolás Maduro's government. The international community remained divided on how to address the situation. source: bbc.com
- 13 Feb 2019 Khash-Zahedan Suicide Attack: A devastating suicide bombing attack in southeastern Iran killed at least 27 Iranian Revolutionary Guards. The militant group Jaish ul-Adl claimed responsibility for the attack, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region and targeting Iranian security forces.
- 14 Feb Haiti Political Protests: Widespread protests erupted in Haiti demanding the resignation of President Jovenel Moise, which began on February 7th and escalated with nine people killed during the demonstrations, highlighting significant political unrest in the country.
- 21 Feb Catalonia Separatist Protests: Catalonian separatists organized a general strike to protest the trial of independence leaders, with education community members blocking major roads, railway tracks, and Tarragona port. Three demonstrators were arrested, and 20 were injured in clashes.
- 22 Feb Venezuelan National Guard Violence Against Indigenous Protesters: On February 22, 2019, reports emerged of the Venezuelan National Guard using force against indigenous protesters who were attempting to bring humanitarian aid into the country. The violence highlighted the government's resistance to foreign assistance amid the ongoing political crisis. source: bbc.com
- 16 Mar Yellow Vests protests in Paris: On March 16, 2019, the Yellow Vests movement continued its protests in Paris, marking several months of demonstrations against economic inequality and government policies. The protests were characterized by clashes with police and widespread public support for the movement's demands. This event was part of a larger series of protests that began in late 2018. source: bbc.com
- 22 Mar Algerian protests against President Bouteflika: Mass protests erupted in Algeria against President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who announced his intention to run for a fifth term. Demonstrators expressed widespread discontent with the government and called for political reform. The protests marked a significant moment in Algeria's political landscape, reflecting a desire for change. source: bbc.com
- 26 Mar Algerian Political Unrest: Army Chief of Staff Ahmed Gaid Salah publicly called for President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's resignation or removal from office amid national protests.
- 29 Mar Algerian protests against President Bouteflika: On March 29, 2019, large-scale protests continued in Algeria against President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who had announced his intention to run for a fifth term. The protests were fueled by widespread discontent over corruption and economic issues. source: aljazeera.com
- 01 Apr Bouteflika resigns as President of Algeria: On April 1, 2019, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, the President of Algeria, resigned after weeks of mass protests against his rule. Bouteflika, who had been in power since 1999, faced mounting pressure due to his prolonged tenure and health issues. His resignation marked a significant turning point in Algeria's political landscape, leading to the establishment of a transitional government and the promise of democratic reforms. source: aljazeera.com
- 07 Apr Power Outage During Sudan Protests: A major power outage occurred in Sudan during ongoing anti-government protests, highlighting the political tension in the country.
- 08 Apr U.S. designates Iran's Revolutionary Guard as terrorist organization: On April 8, 2019, the United States officially designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a foreign terrorist organization. This unprecedented move aimed to increase pressure on Iran and had significant diplomatic implications in the Middle East. source: pbs.org
- 09 Apr Sudanese Protests Turn Violent: During the 2018-19 Sudanese Protests, heavy gunfire erupted in Khartoum as Rapid Support Forces loyal to President Omar al-Bashir attempted to disperse an anti-government demonstration outside the military headquarters. The confrontation resulted in at least 14 fatalities, including five defecting Sudanese soldiers.
- 11 Apr Sudanese military coup against President al-Bashir: The Sudanese military ousted President Omar al-Bashir after months of protests against his rule. The military announced a transitional government, leading to significant political changes in the country. source: aljazeera.com
- 28 Apr Hong Kong Protests Against Extradition Law: The largest demonstrations in Hong Kong since 2014 erupted over proposed legal changes that would allow suspects to be extradited to mainland China for trial, signaling significant public resistance to potential erosion of the region's judicial independence.
- 30 Apr Venezuela Political Crisis Escalates: Opposition leader Juan Guaido claims Leopoldo Lopez was freed by defecting soldiers who abandoned their loyalty to President Nicolas Maduro, sparking street protests and political tension in Venezuela.
- 04 May Gaza-Israel conflict escalation: On May 4, 2019, during the weekly protests at the Gaza-Israel border, two Israeli soldiers were injured by sniper fire from Gaza. In response, the Israeli Air Force conducted an airstrike on a Hamas post, killing two individuals. Following this, over 250 rockets were launched from Gaza into Israel, causing at least one serious injury. The Israeli military retaliated with airstrikes targeting more than 120 sites in the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of four Palestinians, including a woman and a toddler. source: aljazeera.com
- 05 May Venezuela political crisis escalation: On May 5, 2019, the political crisis in Venezuela escalated as opposition leader Juan Guaidó called for a military uprising against President Nicolás Maduro's government. The call led to clashes between security forces and protesters, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. source: bbc.com
- 16 May Venezuelan Embassy Raid in Washington: At Juan Guaido's request, U.S. federal agents raided the Venezuelan Embassy, expelling Code Pink protesters who were staying at the invitation of President Nicolas Maduro. Maduro's government condemned the raid as a violation of the Vienna Convention.
- 28 May Sudanese Opposition Protests Political Transition: Opposition leaders in Sudan organized a two-day protest regarding the stalled negotiations between military and opposition alliance groups concerning the government transition following the 2019 Sudanese coup.
- 03 Jun Khartoum massacre: Sudanese security forces attack protesters: Sudanese security forces conducted a violent crackdown on protesters in Khartoum, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries, escalating tensions in the region. source: aljazeera.com
- 06 Jun Sudan suspended from the African Union: On June 6, 2019, the African Union suspended Sudan's participation in all AU activities until the establishment of a civilian-led Transitional Authority, following a military crackdown on protesters that resulted in numerous deaths. source: aljazeera.com
- 09 Jun Massive Hong Kong Extradition Law Protest: On June 9, 2019, Hong Kong witnessed one of its largest protests in history, with millions opposing a proposed extradition law, leading to significant political unrest. source: bbc.com
- 20 Jun Iran shoots down US surveillance drone: On June 20, 2019, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) shot down a U.S. surveillance drone over the Strait of Hormuz, claiming it had violated Iranian airspace. The incident escalated tensions between the two nations, with the U.S. military stating the drone was in international airspace. President Trump later ordered a retaliatory military strike, which was called off at the last minute. source: cnbc.com
- 23 Jun Massive Protest in Prague: The largest protest in Czech history since the 1989 Velvet Revolution took place, with hundreds of thousands of citizens marching through Prague to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Andrej Babis.
- 28 Jun Protests at Bahrain Embassy in Baghdad: Over 200 protesters stormed the Bahrain Embassy in Baghdad, demonstrating against a U.S.-led meeting regarding the Israeli-Palestinian Peace Process, reflecting regional tensions and dissatisfaction with diplomatic efforts.
- 30 Jun Sudanese Protests Turn Violent: During the 2018-19 Sudanese Protests, ten people were killed in violent clashes between civilian protesters and the Sudanese army, highlighting the ongoing political tensions in the country.
- 01 Jul Hong Kong protests escalate: Protests in Hong Kong intensified, with demonstrators clashing with police over proposed extradition laws, leading to widespread unrest.
- 09 Jul Hong Kong leader declares extradition bill 'dead': On July 9, 2019, Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam declared the controversial extradition bill 'dead' during a news conference. Despite this announcement, protesters remained skeptical, fearing the bill could be reintroduced and calling for her resignation. source: axios.com
- 12 Jul Venezuelan political crisis escalates: On July 12, 2019, Venezuela's political crisis intensified as opposition leader Juan Guaidó called for mass protests against President Nicolás Maduro's government, leading to increased tensions and international concern. source: bbc.com
- 19 Jul Iran Seizes British Tankers in Persian Gulf: The Iranian Navy of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps seized the British tanker Stena Impero and temporarily detained the British-operated, Liberian-flagged ship Mesdar in the Persian Gulf, escalating tensions between Iran and the United Kingdom. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt stated that Iran would not release the tanker.
- 21 Jul Yuen Long attack in Hong Kong: A group of masked men attacked commuters in Yuen Long, Hong Kong, injuring at least 45 people. The incident occurred after a pro-democracy protest in the area. source: bbc.com
- 22 Jul Deadly protest in Nigeria: A protest in Nigeria turned violent, resulting in the deaths of at least 10 people. The demonstration was against police brutality and government corruption. source: aljazeera.com
- 28 Jul Mass protests in Hong Kong against Chief Executive Carrie Lam: On July 28, 2019, large-scale protests took place in Hong Kong, with demonstrators demanding the resignation of Chief Executive Carrie Lam. The protests were sparked by concerns over proposed extradition legislation and broader demands for democratic reforms. The demonstrations were marked by significant public participation and were met with a heavy police presence. source: bbc.com
- 29 Jul Sudanese Protests Turn Deadly: During the 2018-19 Sudanese Protests, security forces opened fire on demonstrators in El-Obeid, killing five students. This violent crackdown highlighted the government's harsh response to civil unrest.
- 31 Jul Violence against pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong: On July 31, 2019, protests in Hong Kong escalated, leading to violent clashes between police and pro-democracy activists. The unrest highlighted ongoing tensions regarding political freedoms and governance in the region. source: reuters.com
- 04 Aug Hong Kong pro-democracy protests intensify: On August 4, 2019, protests in Hong Kong escalated as demonstrators clashed with police. The protests were part of a larger movement against a proposed extradition bill and for greater democratic freedoms. The situation drew significant international attention and concern. source: theguardian.com
- 05 Aug Hong Kong general strike and protests: On August 5, 2019, a general strike took place in Hong Kong, with thousands participating in protests against the government. The strike disrupted transportation and businesses, reflecting widespread discontent with the government's handling of the pro-democracy movement. source: bbc.com
- 11 Aug Zimbabwe opposition protest turns violent: On August 11, 2019, opposition protests in Zimbabwe escalated into violence, leading to clashes between protesters and security forces. The demonstrations were sparked by economic hardships and political grievances. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 13 Aug Hong Kong airport protests disrupt travel: On August 13, 2019, protests at Hong Kong International Airport led to significant disruptions, with flights canceled and travelers affected. The protests were part of ongoing demonstrations against the Hong Kong government's proposed extradition bill. source: bbc.com
- 16 Aug Cathay Pacific CEO Resigns Amid Hong Kong Protest Controversy: The Chief Executive Officer of Cathay Pacific Airlines stepped down following significant pressure related to the airline's handling of employee actions during the Hong Kong protests.
- 18 Aug Massive pro-democracy protest in Hong Kong: On August 18, 2019, over one million protesters marched peacefully through Hong Kong's streets, defying a police ban. The rally, organized by the Civil Human Rights Front, was one of the largest in the city's history, with participants chanting pro-democracy slogans and calling for the withdrawal of a controversial extradition bill. Despite heavy rainfall, the demonstration remained largely peaceful, marking the 11th consecutive weekend of protests. source: abc.net.au
- 19 Aug Kashmir protests during lockdown: On August 19, 2019, protests erupted in Kashmir amid a lockdown imposed by Indian authorities. The unrest was triggered by the government's decision to revoke Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted special autonomy to the region. Security forces clamped down on the protests, leading to clashes and reports of injuries. The situation in Kashmir remained tense, with international concern over human rights violations and the impact on the local population. source: aljazeera.com
- 25 Aug Hong Kong Protests Escalation: In August 2019, Hong Kong experienced escalating protests, with demonstrators clashing with police over issues related to the region's autonomy and governance. source: cnbc.com
- 13 Sep Paris Metro workers strike against pension reforms: Workers of the Paris Metro initiated a strike to protest proposed pension reforms, leading to significant disruptions in public transportation services across the city. source: reuters.com
- 15 Sep Hong Kong protests escalate: Protests in Hong Kong intensified, with demonstrators clashing with police over demands for democratic reforms and police accountability. source: bbc.com
- 23 Sep Hong Kong Protests Escalate with Mall Confrontation: On September 23, 2019, protests in Hong Kong escalated with a confrontation at a shopping mall, leading to increased tensions between demonstrators and authorities. The protests, which began earlier in the year, continued to demand democratic reforms and greater autonomy from China. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 27 Sep Anti-China Protests in Kiribati: Opposition groups in Kiribati staged protests in the capital Tarawa following the government's decision to sever ties with Taiwan and establish diplomatic relations with China.
- 02 Oct Political uncertainty in Peru: On October 2, 2019, political uncertainty in Peru escalated as President Martín Vizcarra dissolved the country's Congress, leading to widespread protests and debates over the legality and implications of his decision. The move intensified tensions between the executive and legislative branches. source: bbc.com
- 06 Oct Hong Kong protesters defy face mask ban: Hong Kong protesters continued demonstrations despite a government ban on face masks, leading to clashes with police and escalating tensions in the region. source: reuters.com
- 07 Oct Mass anti-government protests erupt in Iraq: Massive anti-government protests erupted in Iraq, demanding reforms and better living conditions, resulting in violent clashes and numerous fatalities. source: reuters.com
- 17 Oct Mexican Cartel Power Demonstration in Culiacan: Drug cartels in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico successfully forced the Mexican government to abandon an arrest operation, demonstrating their significant power and influence over state security forces. source: Wikipedia (day-month pages)
- 18 Oct Chile social unrest: Santiago metro riots: On October 18, 2019, protests erupted in Santiago, Chile, over a subway fare increase, leading to widespread riots and civil unrest. The situation escalated, resulting in significant damage to public infrastructure and a national state of emergency being declared. source: bbc.com
- 26 Oct Escalating Iraqi Protests Lead to Significant Casualties: In early October 2019, widespread protests erupted across Iraq, driven by grievances over government corruption, unemployment, and inadequate public services. By October 6, at least 104 people had been killed and over 6,000 injured. The government's response included internet restrictions, curfews, and deploying security forces who fired on demonstrators. The unrest led to the torching of 51 public buildings and 8 political party headquarters. source: axios.com
- 27 Oct Chilean President Restructures Government: In response to widespread national protests, Chilean President Sebastián Piñera dismissed his entire cabinet, signaling an intention to implement significant social reforms demanded by demonstrators.
- 28 Oct Chilean Political Upheaval: President Sebastián Piñera reshuffled his cabinet amid ongoing protests, replacing key ministers in response to widespread social demonstrations in Santiago and other cities.
- 02 Nov Hong Kong protests escalate: Protests in Hong Kong escalated, with demonstrators clashing with police and demanding democratic reforms. The unrest marked a significant period in Hong Kong's political history. source: bbc.com
- 03 Nov Mass anti-government protests escalate in Iraq: On November 3, 2019, mass anti-government protests escalated in Iraq, with demonstrators demanding economic relief and political reforms. Activists called for a general strike, leading to the closure of streets, schools, and government offices in Baghdad. Protesters expressed frustration over unemployment, poor public services, and government corruption. source: newarab.com
- 06 Nov Deadly protests in Baghdad, Iraq: On November 6, 2019, deadly protests erupted in Baghdad, Iraq. Security forces used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse demonstrators, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The protests were part of a broader wave of unrest across the country, driven by demands for political reforms and economic improvements. source: aljazeera.com
- 10 Nov Evo Morales Resigns as President of Bolivia: On November 10, 2019, amid escalating protests and pressure, Bolivian President Evo Morales resigned from office, marking a significant turning point in the country's political crisis. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 11 Nov Violent protests continue in Hong Kong: On November 11, 2019, Hong Kong experienced widespread unrest as protesters attempted to enforce a general strike. Demonstrations led to significant disruptions, including roadblocks and transport service interruptions. Clashes between protesters and police resulted in at least 60 injuries, with police firing live bullets in response to escalating violence. The unrest was part of a broader pro-democracy movement that had been ongoing for several months. source: aljazeera.com
- 12 Nov Hong Kong protests escalate: On November 12, 2019, Hong Kong's pro-democracy protests intensified, with demonstrators blocking major roads and disrupting transport services. The protests were sparked by the death of a university student, Alex Chow, and escalated following police actions, including the shooting of a protester. The unrest led to significant disruptions across the city. source: aljazeera.com
- 13 Nov Hong Kong Protests Escalate in Business District: Protesters continued their sustained demonstrations in Hong Kong's central business district, causing significant disruption to city operations. Approximately 1,000 protesters blocked roads, leading to closures of public transport, schools, and businesses. Riot police responded with force, highlighting the ongoing tension between pro-democracy demonstrators and Chinese authorities. The protests, originally sparked by an extradition bill, had evolved into a broader movement challenging Beijing's influence.
- 15 Nov Iran imposes internet shutdown during nationwide protests: On November 15, 2019, Iran initiated a near-total internet blackout in response to widespread protests over fuel price hikes. The shutdown, lasting several days, aimed to suppress the dissemination of information and hinder coordination among protesters. This action led to significant economic losses and hindered communication both domestically and internationally. source: aljazeera.com
- 18 Nov Hong Kong University campus siege: On November 18, 2019, Hong Kong Polytechnic University became the focal point of intense clashes between protesters and police. The campus was besieged, leading to significant confrontations and a standoff that lasted several days. source: aljazeera.com
- 19 Nov Deadly protests in Bolivia following Evo Morales' removal: On November 19, 2019, Bolivia experienced deadly protests following the removal of President Evo Morales. The unrest led to significant casualties and highlighted the political turmoil in the country. source: aljazeera.com
- 20 Nov Amnesty reports massive death toll in Iranian fuel protests: Amnesty International reported that at least 143 people were killed during protests in Iran over fuel price hikes. The organization called for an independent investigation into the violence and the government's response to the protests. source: reuters.com
- 21 Nov U.S. supports Hong Kong protesters: The U.S. Congress passed legislation supporting the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. The bill aimed to protect human rights and hold accountable those responsible for violence against protesters. source: reuters.com
- 24 Nov Nationwide protests against Colombian president: On November 24, 2019, widespread protests erupted across Colombia, with demonstrators demanding the resignation of President Iván Duque. The protests were fueled by dissatisfaction with government policies and economic conditions. source: bbc.com
- 25 Nov UN Peacekeepers Headquarters Stormed in Beni, DRC: In a violent protest against the United Nations peacekeepers' perceived ineffectiveness, demonstrators attacked the MONUSCO headquarters in Beni, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Protesters set UN vehicles on fire, expressing their frustration with the peacekeepers' failure to stop the ongoing Allied Democratic Forces insurgency. Congolese security forces responded by firing into the crowd, resulting in at least two fatalities.
- 27 Nov Trump signs Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act: On November 27, 2019, U.S. President Donald Trump signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act into law, supporting pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong and imposing sanctions on Chinese officials responsible for human rights abuses. source: reuters.com
- 28 Nov Deadly protests in Iraq: On November 28, 2019, violent protests erupted in Iraq, resulting in numerous fatalities. Demonstrators were calling for political reforms and an end to corruption. source: aljazeera.com
- 29 Nov Hong Kong police end siege at Polytechnic University: On November 29, 2019, Hong Kong police ended the siege at Polytechnic University, arresting numerous protesters and marking the conclusion of a significant chapter in the city's pro-democracy protests. source: bbc.com
- 30 Nov Iraqi Prime Minister resigns amid widespread protests: On November 30, 2019, Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi announced his resignation following months of protests against government corruption and mismanagement. His resignation was seen as a response to the demands of the demonstrators. source: aljazeera.com
- 02 Dec Iraqi Prime Minister resigns: On December 2, 2019, Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi officially resigned, following widespread protests and political pressure. His resignation was a pivotal moment in Iraq's ongoing political crisis. source: aljazeera.com
- 09 Dec Venezuelan National Guardsmen Flee After Failed Uprising: Sixteen Venezuelan National Guardsmen who participated in a failed attempt to overthrow President Nicolás Maduro successfully escaped Venezuela through a clandestine military operation, highlighting ongoing political tensions in the country.
- 11 Dec India passes controversial citizenship amendment bill: On December 11, 2019, the Indian Parliament passed a controversial citizenship amendment bill that provides a pathway to citizenship for non-Muslim refugees from neighboring countries. The bill sparked widespread protests and debates about its implications for secularism in India. source: bbc.com
- 12 Dec Evo Morales seeks asylum in Argentina: Following his resignation amid political unrest in Bolivia, former President Evo Morales sought asylum in Argentina. Morales fled Bolivia after weeks of protests and allegations of electoral fraud, leading to his departure and the subsequent political crisis in the country. source: aljazeera.com
- 13 Dec UN Report Confirms Human Rights Violations in Chile: The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights released a critical report on December 13, 2019, documenting severe human rights violations during the Chilean protests. The report detailed instances of excessive force, arbitrary detentions, torture, and sexual violence, drawing international attention to the social unrest in Chile.
- 15 Dec India Citizenship Bill Protests Erupt: On December 15, 2019, widespread protests erupted across India in response to the Citizenship Amendment Bill, which critics argued discriminated against Muslim minorities. source: bbc.com
- 19 Dec Nationwide protests against Citizenship Amendment Act in India: On December 19, 2019, widespread protests erupted across India against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which critics argued discriminated against Muslims. The protests were marked by significant public demonstrations and clashes with law enforcement. source: bbc.com
- 20 Dec Deadly Protests in Uttar Pradesh, India: Violent clashes between protesters and police in Uttar Pradesh, India, resulted in six fatalities. These protests highlighted ongoing social and political tensions in the region, potentially related to controversial citizenship legislation.
- 21 Dec Widespread protests in Hong Kong and India: On December 21, 2019, protests continued in both Hong Kong and India, with demonstrators voicing opposition to government policies. The protests in Hong Kong were part of a larger movement for democratic reforms, while those in India were against the Citizenship Amendment Act. source: bbc.com
- 31 Dec US Embassy in Baghdad attacked by protesters: On December 31, 2019, protesters breached the outer wall of the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, in response to U.S. airstrikes on the Kata'ib Hezbollah militia. The protesters set fire to a reception area and vandalized the compound. U.S. personnel were unharmed, and no evacuation was planned. The U.S. deployed additional troops to secure the embassy. source: aljazeera.com
What happened in 2019?
Discover what the world looked like in 2019: