The Egyptian Revolution of 2011

Eighteen days of mass protests that ended Hosni Mubarak's thirty years in power.

Background

Hosni Mubarak had been president since 1981 and ruled under emergency law. Many Egyptians were angered by police abuses, corruption, rising prices and unemployment, and the death of Khaled Said in 2010 became a rallying point.

Course of events

Inspired by Tunisia, protests began on 25 January 2011, and Tahrir Square in Cairo became the centre of the movement. Demonstrators of many backgrounds called for bread, freedom and social justice. After eighteen days and clashes that killed hundreds, Mubarak resigned on 11 February.

Legacy

The military council took charge, and Mohamed Morsi won the presidency in 2012. He was removed by the army in 2013 after large protests, and Abdel Fattah el-Sisi became president, so the long-term outcome of the revolution remains disputed.