​In different countries, protesters used similar strategies. They held strikes and mostly nonviolent protests. They used the Internet, cell phones, and social media to unite people and promote their cause. Likewise, different governments acted similarly to stop the protests. For example, they used violence against their own people and blocked Internet and mobile network access.

​Each country touched by the Arab Spring has had a different outcome. Some protests were successful. Dictators were forced out of power in Tunisia, Egypt, and Libya. A dictator is someone who rules a country with complete power. By contrast, Bahrain and Syria used brutal force to stop the protests. Regardless, the Arab Spring gave hope to millions of people in the region. Only time will tell the extent to which these hopes will be met.

​People & Language

​Most people in North Africa are of mixed Arab and Berber ancestry. The Berbers are an ethnic group who are native to North Africa and speak Berber languages. As you have previously read, the majority of North Africans speak Arabic, but some also speak French, Italian, and English.

Religion Holiday & Customs​

​As in Egypt, most North Africans are Muslims who practice the religion of Islam. This is reflected in their holidays, which include the birthday of Muhammad, the prophet of Islam, as well as the holy month of Ramadan.

Gathering at cafes is a custom practiced by many men in North Africa. The cafes are a place where they go to play chess or dominoes. Most women in North Africa socialize only in their homes.

​The Arts & Literature

​North Africa is famous for beautiful handwoven carpets. The women who weave these carpets use bright colors to create complex geometric patterns. Beautifully detailed hand-painted tile work is also a major art form in the region.

​Libya

​From 1969 to 2011, Libya was ruled by a dictator, Colonel Muammar Gaddafi. In 2011 pro-democracy protests broke out in Libya. Gaddafi’s crackdown on protesters led to a civil war. An international air and naval intervention sealed the dictator’s fate. Gaddafi’s regime toppled. In 2012 Libya formed a new parliament and elected Ali Zaydan prime minister.

​Morocco

​Morocco is the only North African country with little oil. Today, the country is an important producer and exporter of fertilizer.

​Algeria

​Following a series of protests in 2011, Algeria’s government made reforms. It lifted a 19-year state of emergency. It also eased restrictions on the media, political parties, and the ability of women to serve in elected office.

​Tunisia

​The protests of the Arab Spring started in Tunisia in December 2010. By January 2011 protesters had forced longtime President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali from power. Since that time, Tunisians have held democratic elections and struggled with the role of Islam in government and society.