Tiananmen Square: 30 years on

In April 1989, protests erupted in Beijing's Tiananmen Square, initially to honor reformist Hu Yaobang and demand economic reforms. The movement quickly grew, involving students, workers, and intellectuals, calling for an end to authoritarianism. Despite government warnings, protests intensified after a state-run newspaper labeled them anti-party. Failed negotiations with leaders led to martial law. On June 4th, the military violently cleared the square, resulting in a disputed death toll. The iconic 'Tank Man' incident followed, symbolizing resistance. Official reports claimed 300 deaths, but witnesses suggested thousands.

What was the initial reason for the gathering in Beijing that led to the protests?

• To support a new government policy

• To demand economic reform and remember Hu Yaobang

• To protest against foreign interference

• To celebrate a national holiday

What was the reaction of the People's Daily to the student protests?

• It supported the students' demands

• It ignored the protests

• It accused the protesters of being anti-party and anti-socialist

• It called for immediate reforms

What significant event took place on May 19 involving Zhao Ziyang and Li Peng?

• They supported the students' demands

• They declared martial law

• They met with student protesters at Tiananmen Square

• They resigned from their positions

What was the 'Goddess of Democracy'?

• A new political party

• A famous protest leader

• A statue erected by students in Tiananmen Square

• A government reform program

What was the estimated death toll according to witnesses after the June 4th crackdown?

• Less than 100

• Exactly 23

• In the thousands

• Roughly 300