Clashes Erupt in London as G20 Protesters Clamor for Change

Protests against the global economic crisis and the policies of world leaders escalated in London on Friday, with thousands of demonstrators clashing with police in the city's financial district. The protests, which drew in hundreds of people from various anti-capitalist, environmentalist, and anarchist groups, were sparked by the G20 summit's efforts to address the financial crisis. The demonstrations turned violent as protesters targeted the Royal Bank of Scotland and the Bank of England, smashing windows and vandalizing the buildings.

Key Takeaways:

• Over 30 people were arrested during the protests, with more than 4,000 people participating in the demonstrations.
• One man died after collapsing in the street during the protests near the Bank of England, although the cause of death was not confirmed.
• Protesters targeted the Royal Bank of Scotland and the Bank of England, smashing windows and vandalizing the buildings.
• The protests were sparked by the G20 summit's efforts to address the financial crisis and the policies of world leaders.
• Protesters brandished signs and banners with slogans such as "Resistance is Fertile," "Make Love not Leverage," and "Banks are evil."
• A group of protesters, allegedly anarchist in nature, attacked a police cordon at the Bank of England.
• Riot police used batons and other equipment to disperse the crowd, and several police officers were injured.
• RBS, with its former chief executive Fred Goodwin walking off with a $1.3 million pension, has been the focus of particular anger from protesters.

Statistics:

• Over 4,000 people participated in the protests.
• More than 30 people were arrested.
• 1 man died after collapsing in the street during the protests.
• 2 million people are currently unemployed in the UK.
• 150 people on average applied for every job contract.
• RBS received a $1.3 million annual pension payment to its former CEO, Fred Goodwin.

Sources:

• Chanting G20 protesters clashed with riot police in central London yesterday.
• Raphael G. Satter, London -- 2008