It only took one year for the people of Côte d'Ivoire, or Ivory Coast, to put an end to a 33-year streak of corrupt political tactics. But breaking the streak wasn't easy, it took a nation. Literally.
From 1989-1990, protests across Ivory aimed to end singular political party rule, and create multiple parties instead. With a flailing economy, the people knew that it was time for change. First, farmers formed unions, which was illegal at the time. Then transportation workers caused roadblocks to voice their concerns.
Children, too, were a crucial piece of the rebellion. Hundreds were either arrested, or victims of tear gas attacks by police. Still, the resistance only grew stronger, especially when the fighters gained support from groups the government didn’t expect.
The military and police officers joined the rebellion due to frustrations with low wages. These protests allowed a multiparty system to be re-introduced, and improved economic conditions for workers of all industries.
It took people of all ages and professions to change Ivory Coast’s political and economical structure. While their fight to further improve the country continues, their rebellion shows that true power lies within the people.