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Global protests: 7 most influential social movements in history

Published on: March 10, 2025 13:06 IST
Civil Rights Movement (USA, 1950s-1960s): One of the most influential social movements in history, the Civil Rights Movement fought against racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans in the United States. Led by figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X, this movement brought about landmark legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
1/7 Image Source : Social media
Civil Rights Movement (USA, 1950s-1960s): One of the most influential social movements in history, the Civil Rights Movement fought against racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans in the United States. Led by figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X, this movement brought about landmark legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
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Anti-Apartheid Movement (South Africa, 1948-1994): The Anti-Apartheid Movement fought against the system of racial segregation and discrimination enforced by the apartheid regime in South Africa. The movement gained global momentum, with leaders like Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu at the forefront. The movement ultimately led to the dismantling of apartheid and the election of Nelson Mandela as the first Black president of South Africa in 1994.
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Arab Spring (2010-2012): Beginning in Tunisia, the Arab Spring was a series of protests across the Arab world aimed at overthrowing authoritarian regimes. It led to significant political change in countries like Tunisia, Egypt, and Libya, though with varying outcomes. While some countries saw increased freedom, others descended into civil war, as seen in Syria.
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#MeToo Movement (Global, 2006-present): The #MeToo movement highlighted the widespread prevalence of sexual harassment and assault, particularly in the workplace. Started by activist Tarana Burke, it gained significant traction in 2017 after allegations against high-profile figures in the entertainment industry, triggering global conversations on consent, power, and accountability.
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Black Lives Matter (USA, 2013-present): The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement emerged in response to the police killings of Black individuals, such as Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, and George Floyd. It has become an international movement advocating for an end to police violence, racial injustice, and systemic oppression of Black communities worldwide.
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Farmers' Protest (India, 2020-2021): One of the largest protests in recent Indian history, the Farmers' Protest was organized by farmers against three controversial farm laws passed by the Indian government. Farmers, primarily from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, argued the laws would undermine their livelihoods and corporate interests would overpower their farming practices. The protest garnered global attention and led to the eventual repeal of the laws in 2021, marking a significant victory for farmer activism in India.
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Fridays for Future (Global, 2018-present): Founded by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, the Fridays for Future movement involves young people globally demanding action on climate change. Thunberg’s “school strike for climate” inspired millions to take to the streets, advocating for environmental sustainability and stronger climate policies to combat the climate crisis.