Algiers Peaceful Demonstrations

I got very lucky to observe modern history unfolding while in Algeria. On Tuesday, after six weeks of peaceful demonstrations the 82 year-old, sickly president resigned, albeit the demonstrators weren’t satisfied. They continued demonstrating for a seventh consecutive week, seeking the exit of all those associated with the president’s allegedly corrupt regime.

 The demonstrations have dampened Algeria’s tourist industry. Many potential tourists have mentally linked the demonstrations to less-peaceful Arab-Spring Revolutions. But I can personally attest, after walking amongst the demonstrators and chatting to observers in front of my hotel, I never felt unsafe or that danger was abound. I even witnessed, and was thoroughly impressed by, random youths picking up litter, presumably trying to forgo any potential criticism of the demonstrations by supporters of the regime.