{{U}} (31) {{/U}}the very first day there was a tense moment and a hint of things to come. Blocked at every turn, a World Trade Organization (WTO) delegate couldn't get{{U}} (32) {{/U}}the human chain of protesters. Surrounding the convention center where the WTO meeting was to be held, peaceful protesters stood their ground trying to delay the meetings inside.
They promised to stall the World Trade Organization. They succeeded at least temporarily. The first day's events were delayed{{U}} (33) {{/U}}hours, due to the blockade and a security scare in the convention center.
Few could have anticipated so much anger towards such an obscure organization. A steelworker in the labor march had{{U}} (34) {{/U}}to say, "A lot of people didn't know what that was about; no concept, no idea of{{U}} (35) {{/U}}the WTO is."
Labor groups, environmentalists and farmers formed unlikely coalitions, fearing the WTO could upset their world.
Rep. George Miller says, "It affects our environment, it affects our workers, it affects our trade policy, it affects our habitat."
While tens of thousands rallied peacefully, those with more violent agendas stole the headlines. A band of about 150 self-avowed anarchists smashed windows, sprayed graffiti and looted storefronts.
When the police took back the streets, the images were just as ugly. Protesters were arrested, tear gas and pepper spray was used,{{U}} (36) {{/U}}. finally police cordoned off the downtown area to keep protesters away from the meeting.
By the week's end there was an uneasy truce.
Seattle Mayor Paul Schell says, "Ninety-nine percent of the protests went peacefully when people had their say, and it will have an impact{{U}} (37) {{/U}}the WTO."
{{U}} (38) {{/U}}the inside, some delegates say the cries from the outside were tough to ignore. "Maybe it has sensitized a bit, the structure of the WTO."
Seemingly out of nowhere came an issue that inspired massive protests right{{U}} (39) {{/U}}the final day.
{{U}} (40) {{/U}}the presidential race in preliminary heats, you can bet that from now on when voters want to talk trade, the politicians will listen.