A demonstration is the public display of the common opinion of a activist group, often economically, political, or socially, by gathering in a crowd, usually at a symbolic place or date, associated with that opinion. The purpose of a demonstration is to show that a significant amount of people are for or against a certain issue, person, law, etc.

A demonstration is usually considered more successful the more people participate.

Some demonstrations and riots turn, at least partially, into violence against things (like cars and shops), bystanders and the police.

See also: Protest, freedom of assembly

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A military demonstration is the show of armed forces and their capabilities, often in maneuvers, to impress a potential enemy. It can be used either to provoke that enemy into opening an armed conflict, or to scare him away from one.

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A demonstration is a way of teaching, for example, by performing a certain action, so others can see and learn it.

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A demonstration is a conclusive proof.

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For music or software demonstrations, see demo.