Quote:
Originally Posted by transplant99
In 1991 to even 2003 there was no Twitter/Facebook that allowed for mass communication like we have today, and I believe this is the single largest difference in why we are seeing so many revolts all springing up at once. Those who want to, know they are not alone and as always in these things a show of force by many makes it so much easier to be a part of it.
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This is actually the topic of my thesis. Internet protest organization has been going on since the mid 90's and the Zapatista movement in Mexico, but social tools with viral-spread capabilities make it more accessible. Also, mashups and hashtag use combined with creative API's and mobile devices have further enabled social media-based political upheaval.
In fact, i would say it's more mobile devices and smart phones that have allowed for this sort of mass communication. Live, real-time coverage can be captured, documented and exported abroad now without having to do transfers and uploading on desktop PC's in a static location.