In ancient times, what is now Yemen was given the name Arabia Felix — or “Happy Arabia” — by the Romans. But in modern times, it has enjoyed such a description in title only. In recent decades, Yemen has become known as one of the poorest countries in the world: the homeland of extremists, racked by conflict under the 33-year dictatorial rule of President Ali Abdullah Saleh. When the Arab uprisings began, Yemenis saw a new chance to continue their struggle toward a more democratic state. For years, Yemenis have been politically active in the streets, from the political campaigns of the Joint Meeting Parties (JMP) during the presidential elections in 2006 to the southern movement rallies in 2007. But as other Arab rulers felt the spring wind in their windows, Saleh tried to temper it by announcing a dose of reforms right off the bat. Some were entirely unrealistic
