On May 14, 1998, violent riots broke out in Indonesia, sparked by economic hardship and widespread dissatisfaction with President Suhartos regime. The riots quickly escalated into protests, with looting and violence targeting ethnic Chinese communities. Over 1,000 people were killed, and the violence led to the fall of President Suharto after 31 years of rule. The riots exposed deep ethnic tensions and class divisions in Indonesia. The event played a pivotal role in Indonesias transition to democracy.