History 10, 2023-2024

Arab Spring Project Work Log

Annotated Bibliography

Source #1 Title: Libya Revolt of 2011 - Britannica

What is your TRAAP score for this source? 48/50

MLA Citation:
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Libya Revolt of 2011 | History, War,
Timeline, and Map.” Encyclopedia Britannica, 11 Jan. 2024,
www.britannica.com/event/Libya-Revolt-of-2011#ref300033.

Who is the author and what about their academic background makes this
source credible?
The author(s) of this source are not directly stated or available to the readers.
However, the most recent editor of this source is Adam Zeidan. Zeidan has worked as
a qualified editor for Britannica, a well credited web page. He specialized in writings
involving the Middle East and North Africa. This is especially relevant to our topic
which delves into the Arab/North African political uprisings in the early 2000s.

Does the Author have any identifiable bias?

Since the article provides a factual chronological list of events in Libya, there is no
apparent bias of the author known to the readers. The author does not express any
opinion on the matter of these events in Libya or make any statements that indicate a
stance in the conflict. The article above has information that is informative and
descriptive rather than persuasive and biased or promoting any sort of viewpoint.

Provide a summary of what the source is about.

The source highlights the events of the Libyan revolt in 2011. The uprisings began
early in 2011, as anti-government protesters took to the streets angry at the arrest of a
lawyer. The protests began to escalate and spread across LIbya, causing violent
crackdowns on the citizens imposed by the government. The Libyan government’s
intense violence brought international condemnation, and many Libyan government
officials stepped down from their positions. The conflict quickly escalated into a
violent one, as armed rebellious forces gained support and more access to weapons.
Qadaffi, the authoritarian ruler of Libya at the time, spoke out against these uprisings
against him, claiming that the people at the core of this movement were under the
influence of hallucinating drugs, and controlled by al-Qaeda. International efforts
were complicated but trying to help the civil war in LIbya. Eventually intervention
and sanctions from the ICC and international forces were taken to keep the Libyan
citizens safe. Gaddafi continued his claims and stayed in power, while the regime
continued to gain more support. A large group of local rebel groups called the
Transitional National Council (TNC), began to take charge in the revolution. However,
matters only worsened and the armed struggle continued. Citizens began to flee the
country and many humanitarian organizations served to help the food and medical aid
shortage while fights continued to break out throughout the country. Despite the
internal struggles inside of LIbya, international condemnation continued and many
countries began to authorize military action. Through this, the Qadaffi regime
immediately called for a ceasefire while international forces implemented a no-fly
zone. Eventually, NATO took control, and soon France, the United Kingdom, and Italy
sent help in. After months of fighting, the rebels finally gained power, they took
control of Tripoli as Qadaffi was in hiding, and later, executed him.

What did it help you understand about your topic specifically?

The article specifically helps us understand the context about our topic. We are
studying and presenting the Libyan revolution in relation to the Arab Spring and
French Revolution. This source is helpful because it gives us the reasons, causes, and
effects of the Libyan Revolution.

When was the source created? Does this impact the value of the source?
It is unclear when exactly this source was created, however, we are given information
that this text is constantly updated and fact checked. This is important to note as it
shows that information and facts are checked and backed up with data and proof. This
text is also updated and modern so we know that the information in this article is not
outdated or false.

Synthesize the above information in a paragraph?

1st point: Who is the author and what is their academic background
2nd point: Summarize the source.
3nd point: Identify how this source is useful to your research
4th point: Identify any issue with relevance regarding author bias, or
publication date.

Paragraph:
The author of this source is not explicitly stated, but the most recent editor, Adam
Zeidan is proved to be a qualified editor of Britannica who specialized in writings of
the Middle East and North Africa. The article provides readers with a detailed and
factual account of the Libyan Revolt of 2011. The text tells the events of the revolution
in a chronological order, from the initiating government protest to the final fall of
Qadaffi and the control of the “rebels”. The source states how the revolutions quickly
escalated into a violent one, as armed rebellious forces gained support and more
access to weapons. Qadaffi, the authoritarian ruler of Libya at the time, spoke out
against these uprisings against him, and continued to gain power, despite the
international condemnation against him. Many international efforts were taken to
step-in to the conflict, in an attempt to aid the turmoil and keep the citizens of Libya
safe. Eventually, after months of fighting, the rebels finally gained power, they took
control of Tripoli as Qadaffi was in hiding, and later, executed him. The source is
valuable to our research as it offers insights into the causes and progression of the
Libyan uprising. There is no identifiable bias in this article, and this is presented in a
factual and informative way. Despite the issue of the specific author not being
mentioned, and the exact date of publication not being clear, the constant updates and
reliable editor of the article ensure the source’s relevance and accuracy.

Annotated Bibliography

Source #2 Title: Libya since the ‘Arab Spring’

What is your TRAAP score for this source? 46/50

MLA Citation:
“Libya since the “Arab Spring”: 7 Ways Human Rights Are under Attack.” Amnesty
International, 16 Feb. 2016,
www.amnesty.org/en/latest/campaigns/2016/02/libya-arab-spring-7-ways-human-rights-are-un
der-attack/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&gad_source=1. Accessed 30 Jan. 2024.

Who is the author and what about their academic background makes this
source credible?
The author of the article is Dr. Agnès Callamard, who is identified as the Secretary
General at Amnesty International. While the article does not provide specific details
about her academic background, it mentions her role in leading Amnesty
International's human rights work. Amnesty International is a well-known and
respected international human rights organization, and the author's affiliation with
such an organization enhances the credibility of the source

Does the Author have any identifiable bias?

Amnesty International is generally considered a reputable organization advocating for
human rights. However, like any organization, it may have certain perspectives or
biases. In this case, the article seems to focus on documenting human rights abuses in
Libya, which might be perceived as biased towards highlighting the negative aspects.
It is crucial for readers to be aware of the organization's mission and goals

Provide a summary of what the source is about.

The article discusses the state of human rights in Libya since the Arab Spring,
highlighting seven ways in which human rights are under attack. These include war
crimes, abuses by armed groups, mistreatment of migrants and refugees, impact on
civilians, attacks on free speech, challenges to women's rights, and issues with the
legal system.

What did it help you understand about your topic specifically?

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the human rights situation in Libya
following the Arab Spring. It sheds light on various aspects, such as the impact of
armed conflict on civilians, the rise of armed groups, abuses against migrants,
challenges to free speech, setbacks in women's rights, and issues within the legal
system. This information helps to understand the multifaceted human rights
challenges facing Libya

When was the source created? Does this impact the value of the source?
Given that the article was published on February 16, 2016, it means the information is
several years old as of my last knowledge update in January 2022. While the core
human rights issues in Libya may persist, the specific details and current situation
might have evolved. Therefore, for the most up-to-date understanding of the human
rights situation in Libya, it is advisable to seek more recent sources and reports. The
age of the source impacts its value for current analysis, and readers should
complement it with newer information for a comprehensive perspective.

Synthesize the above information in a paragraph?

1st point: Who is the author and what is their academic background
2nd point: Summarize the source.
3nd point: Identify how this source is useful to your research
4th point: Identify any issue with relevance regarding author bias, or
publication date.

Paragraph:
The article, published on February 16, 2016, is authored by Dr. Agnès Callamard, who
serves as the Secretary General at Amnesty International, leading the organization's
human rights work. While the article lacks explicit details about Callamard's academic
background, her affiliation with Amnesty International, a reputable human rights
organization, enhances the credibility of the source. The article comprehensively
outlines the challenges to human rights in Libya post the Arab Spring, highlighting
issues such as war crimes, abuses by armed groups, mistreatment of migrants, impact
on civilians, attacks on free speech, setbacks in women's rights, and issues within the
legal system. This source is valuable for research on the human rights situation in
Libya during the specified period, providing a detailed and documented account of the
various challenges faced by the population. However, readers should be cautious of
the information's age, as it was published in 2016, and consider seeking more recent
sources to supplement and update their understanding of the current state of human
rights in Libya.

Annotated Bibliography

Source #3 Title:
What is your TRAAP score for this source? 45

MLA Citation: The Editors of Encyclopedia Britannica. “Muammar Al-Qaddafi |

Biography, Death, & Facts.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 16 Oct. 2018,
www.britannica.com/biography/Muammar-al-Qaddafi.

Who is the author and what about their academic background makes this
source credible?
The article on Muammar al-Qaddafi from Encyclopaedia Britannica mentions that it
was most recently revised and updated by Adam Zeidan, an Associate Editor who
joined Encyclopædia Britannica in 2018. Adam Zeidan covers a range of topics
primarily related to the Middle East and North Africa. Adam Zeidan's academic
background is not explicitly mentioned in the provided information. However, being
an Associate Editor at Encyclopædia Britannica suggests that he is likely
knowledgeable and experienced in the field of journalism and research. While specific
academic credentials are not provided, Britannica as a reputable encyclopedia
maintains editorial standards and fact-checking processes, contributing to the
credibility of the information.

Does the Author have any identifiable bias?

the article does not overtly exhibit bias. However, as with any source, the potential for
bias exists, and it's essential to consider the context and presentation of information.
Encyclopædia Britannica is generally known for its commitment to providing factual
and neutral information. In this case, the information appears to be presented in a
straightforward, chronological manner without evident bias.

Provide a summary of what the source is about

The article provides a comprehensive overview of Muammar al-Qaddafi's life, covering

his early years, rise to power through a military coup, policies, international relations,
conflicts, and the events leading to his overthrow in the Libyan revolt of 2011

What did it help you understand about your topic specifically?

the source helps in understanding Muammar al-Qaddafi's political career, policies,
and international relations, offering insights into the historical context of Libya during
his rule and the factors that led to his downfall. It contributes to a broader
understanding of the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East and North Africa
during that period.

When was the source created? Does this impact the value of the source?
The article mentions that it was last updated on January 1, 2024. The recency of the
update enhances the value of the source, suggesting that the information incorporates
developments up to that date. The relevance of the source may depend on the specific
information needed; however, a recent update generally increases its reliability
.

Synthesize the above information in a paragraph?

1st point: Who is the author and what is their academic background
2nd point: Summarize the source.
3nd point: Identify how this source is useful to your research
4th point: Identify any issue with relevance regarding author bias, or
publication date.

Paragraph:
The article on Muammar al-Qaddafi from Encyclopaedia Britannica was last updated
on January 1, 2024, and was most recently revised and updated by Adam Zeidan, an
Associate Editor at the encyclopedia since 2018. Unfortunately, the article does not
provide details about Adam Zeidan's academic background. The source offers a
thorough overview of Qaddafi's life, covering his early years, rise to power through a
military coup, policies, international relations, and the events leading to his overthrow
in the Libyan revolt of 2011. Despite the lack of the author's academic background, the
information is presented in a straightforward manner without evident bias, aligning
with Britannica's commitment to factual and neutral content. The source is valuable
for researchers seeking insights into Qaddafi's political career, policies, and the
historical and geopolitical context of Libya during his rule. However, potential
limitations include the absence of explicit author bias assessment and the need to
consider the article's last update in relation to the currency of information, especially
given the evolving nature of certain historical and political topics.

Annotated Bibliography

Source #4 Title: The Muammar Gaddafi story

What is your TRAAP score for this source? 45

MLA Citation:Asser, Martin. “The Muammar Gaddafi Story.” BBC News, 21 Oct.
2011, www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-12688033.

Who is the author and what about their academic background makes this
source credible?
Martin Asser, the author of the article, has a background in journalism and extensive
experience in the Middle East. While the snippet does not mention a formal academic
background, it notes that Asser has been photographing the Middle East since his
student days and spent two decades as a journalist with the BBC. His hands-on
experience and long tenure with BBC News indicate a deep understanding of the
region and its political dynamics

Does the Author have any identifiable bias?

Given Martin Asser's background as a journalist with the BBC and his experience in
the Middle East, it's important to recognize potential biases related to the nature of
news reporting. The BBC is generally considered a reliable and impartial news source,
but readers should be aware of any inherent bias in news coverage. Asser's diverse
experience, including work as head of communications for AUB, might offer insights
into the complexities of the region

Provide a summary of what the source is about.

The article, authored by Martin Asser, offers a comprehensive overview of Muammar
Gaddafi's life, political career, and downfall. It provides historical context and covers
various aspects, including Gaddafi's rise to power, political philosophy, international
relations, and the events leading to his eventual demise. The narrative spans from
Gaddafi's early revolutionary days to his controversial actions on the international
stage

What did it help you understand about your topic specifically?

Martin Asser's background as a journalist and his extensive experience in the Middle
East likely contribute to a nuanced understanding of the topic. His firsthand exposure
to the region, coupled with his journalistic expertise, may provide readers with
valuable insights into the complexities of Gaddafi's rule and the geopolitical dynamics
surrounding it

When was the source created? Does this impact the value of the source?
The article is dated October 2011, which aligns with the period of Gaddafi's downfall.
This temporal context is essential for understanding the events and perceptions
during that specific timeframe. However, readers should be aware that the
information is not the most recent, and developments beyond October 2011 are not
covered
Synthesize the above information in a paragraph?
1st point: Who is the author and what is their academic background
2nd point: Summarize the source.
3nd point: Identify how this source is useful to your research
4th point: Identify any issue with relevance regarding author bias, or
publication date.

Paragraph:
The article on Muammar Gaddafi is authored by Martin Asser, a seasoned journalist
with a background in the Middle East and two decades of experience at the BBC.
While his academic background is not explicitly mentioned, Asser's extensive work in
the region, including as a student of Arabic and head of communications for AUB,
suggests a deep understanding of the subject matter. The source, dated October 2011,
provides a comprehensive overview of Gaddafi's life, political career, and downfall. It
delves into Gaddafi's rise to power, political philosophy, international relations, and
the events leading to his demise. The article contributes to my research by offering
historical context and insights into the complexities of Gaddafi's rule, bridging the gap
between his early revolutionary days and controversial international actions. While
Asser's journalistic expertise adds credibility, potential biases related to news
reporting and the absence of information on post-2011 developments in Libya should
be considered when evaluating the source.