The Tiananmen Square protests in 1989 were a significant political and social movement in China, primarily led by students advocating for democratic reforms, freedom of the press, and other political rights. The protests gained momentum in April, culminating in a large demonstration on June 4, when the Chinese government declared martial law and sent in troops to suppress the protests violently. The event resulted in a tragic loss of life and has since been regarded as a pivotal moment in modern Chinese history, with ongoing repercussions for civil liberties and political discourse in China.