1989, twenty-five years ago, was another time and place but driven by people who had freedom beating in their hearts. This post is a continuation of the “Democracy Movements” started yesterday with “Ditches” in the Ukraine. History does, indeed, often repeat itself.
The foreshadowing of Tienanmen Square was ten years of a touch of freedom in China which never had happened before. There was a taste of free speech and more freedom in economics. When a democratic leader died, there was unprecedented mourning which lead to gatherings of students and others in the the seven week occupation in the square. There was no outward reaction from the Chinese government which gave the demonstrators hope and courage. The crowds rose to one million.
The occupiers were demonstrating for some familiar freedoms;
-Government accountability
-Freedom of speech
-Restoration of workers’ control over industry
-Freedom of the press
The Chinese government finally had enough of these demonstrations and they began their show of force. . . . sending the tanks into the square. You can just see the Tank Man. 
Four to six thousand civilians died in Tienanmen Square. 
The West weakly protested the extreme show of force with economic sanctions and an arms embargo against the Chinese Government who quickly regained control.
Ah, but who was the Tienanmen Square Tank Man? No one knows for sure. . . . . . 
Is it possible he was just a man from Beijing walking home with his shopping bag, who walked alone across a six lane street and decided to take a stand and forever become a democratic hero? Speculation continues today as to whether he escaped to Taiwan, or he was caught and executed, or maybe he just disappeared back into his normal life in Beijing.
Tienanmen Square Tank Man standing for “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness!”
TY for this wonderful post! I remember that picture …. I remember that man! TY for reminding me!
I guess I am getting old, but there seems so many connections. . . and I think we shouldn’t forget!
Thanks for the reblog !
Reblogged this on It Is What It Is and commented:
A trip was in time. TY for sharing!
Incredible. Kind of sad.
It is sad, but hopefully he will continue to inspire others to take a stand. . . . . . . Thanks for the comment!
Reblogged this on Oyia Brown.
Very sad story to remember dear
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thank you so much dear 🙂
Once again you are educating me, thank you xx
Can’t underestimate of significance of one man!
I. , too, feel every person can make a difference.
I remember that day, that photo, the story in the news. Such a brave beginning and a heartbreaking end of a dream. Hopefully some day the dream will come true for them. By then we will be fighting for our own rights again, the ones we have lost due to our apathy on election day.
I agree.. In Indian 75-80% of eligible Indians vote!
Such a sad, sad day! And one man’s bravery!
It was and that unnamed man is a hero!
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