Causes of the 2011 Libyan Revolution

The uprising against Muammar Gaddafi’s 42-year rule was fueled by:

1. Economic inequality – Oil wealth concentrated among elites; widespread poverty.
2. Political repression – No free speech, assembly, or fair elections.
3. Corruption – Regime cronies siphoned state resources.
4. Arab Spring inspiration – Tunisia’s successful revolt (Jan 2011) sparked hope across the region.

Protests began in Benghazi in February 2011 and escalated into civil war, leading to Gaddafi’s death in October.