What event sparked the Arab Spring in 2010?

The event that sparked the Arab Spring in 2010 was the act of a street vendor setting himself on fire. This tragic incident occurred in Tunisia when Mohamed Bouazizi, a young vendor, faced police harassment and humiliation. His self-immolation on December 17, 2010, became a powerful symbol of resistance against the oppressive government and the broader social injustices experienced by many in the region.

This act ignited widespread protests across Tunisia, leading to the ousting of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali just weeks later. The profound impact of his sacrifice resonated throughout the Arab world, inspiring similar movements in countries like Egypt, Libya, and Syria, where people were motivated to protest against corruption, unemployment, and oppressive regimes. The self-immolation of Bouazizi is now often regarded as the catalyst for the widespread uprisings associated with the Arab Spring, making it a pivotal moment in the region's history.