© Ryan Pyle

Past examples of government control: During the Olympics, big screen television in a small public square posts a message telling people that they will not show the opening ceremonies and that people should not gather in this public space, Aug. 8, 2008. Many watched on their own televisions. The Olympics had caused much fanfare since 2001 when Beijing was officially awarded the games. The city went through many transformations before it was considered ready to host the games.

© Seamus Murphy/VII Network

Mujahedeen fighters loyal to Ahmed Shah Massoud defend a hilltop against Taliban advances in Ibar, Takhar province, Afghanistan.

© David Bathgate/Corbis

Troops from Charlie Company, U.S. Army 10th Mountain Division, clear buildings in the town of Barg-e Matal, Nuristan province, Afghanistan.

© Lisa Wiltse

Young camper, Josh, enjoys the afternoon with his counselor at the ropes course, one of the many activities offered at Double H.

© Adam Dean

A Han Chinese mob chases down a Uighur man in Urumqi, China, on July 8, 2009. They caught up with him and beat him until the police intervened, firing shots into the air.

© Eli Reed