Re: Just a few questions

The rebellion in Libya was the culmination of decades of rebellion. The chief difference may have been the West deciding that the new government would not be worse than the old one, and possibly better.

In general, the Arab Spring was made possible by changes in public opinion that favored peaceful protest over violent protest. Even though the revolution eventually turned violent in some places, the fact that the people demonstrated their peaceful intent and desire for good governance changed many minds. Those who would have previously supported a dictator as the least bad option, withdrew their support - and the dictators fell.

Although it has not yet proven successful, the Green Movement in Iran may have been the biggest inspiration. They dispensed with all the angry slogans and simply demonstrated their numbers and resolve. That left a lasting impression that peace is possible.

As for the Occupy Wall Street thing, that is clearly the liberal version of the Tea Party, which was built by increments over time - so it had its precedents also.