Female protesters of The Arab Spring (52 images)

Large numbers of people have taken to the streets in protest against corrupt and authoritarian governments. Photographs of male protesters have dominated the headlines, but women have also played an important and undeniable role in the protests. To some, the involvement of women may be a surprise, but it is clear they are active and playing a pivotal role in their country's history.

Palestinian protesters hold mini-Egyptian flags at a demonstration in Ramallah, West Bank, to show solidarity with the Egyptian anti-government demonstrators, February 5, 2011. The Palestinian protesters called for global democracy and the end of authoritarian governments. UPI/Debbie Hill

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Libyan doctors demonstrate for the removal of Libyan leader Moammar Gaddafi on February 25, 2011 in Benghazi, Libya. Euphoria in Libya's second city Benghazi gave way to growing concern that it remains vulnerable to a counter-attack by Gaddafi's forces. UPI

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Libyans demonstrate for the removal of Libyan leader Moammar Gaddafi on February 25, 2011 in Benghazi, Libya. Euphoria in Libya's second city Benghazi gave way to growing concern that it remains vulnerable to a counter-attack by Gaddafi's forces. UPI

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Yemeni anti-government protesters shout slogans during a demonstration calling for the ouster of President Ali Abdullah Saleh in the capital Sanaa, Yemen on February 24, 2011. The Yemeni president ordered his forces to offer "full protection" to anti-regime protesters and loyalists alike, after 15 people died in an uprising against his rule. UPI/Fouad Harazi.

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