Seattle protests (1999)

The Seattle protests of 1999 occurred during the World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference, when thousands of activists and protesters opposed the organization's policies, which they believed prioritized corporate interests over workers and the environment. The demonstrations began peacefully but escalated into large-scale protests, obstructing access to the conference center. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds, leading to significant clashes. The protests drew international attention to concerns about globalization, economic inequality, and trade policies, symbolizing resistance to perceived exploitation and lack of democratic accountability in global trade governance.