10 dramatic photos that show the protests and crackdown in Hong Kong

1) Demonstrators are protesting China's plan for Hong Kong's 2017 elections

The elections will be less democratic than Beijing had earlier promised. On September 24, the student-led pro-democracy protesters moved to Hong Kong's financial district, Central.

2) On Friday, protesters moved into the areas just outside of some government offices

The protesters are led by a group called Occupy Central. Here they are on Saturday facing off with police near Government House, the official residence of Hong Kong's chief executive.

3) This led to clashes with police

4) Protests grew; thousands filled the streets in Central this weekend

5) Protests have shut down much of the city

This has led to concerns (or hopes) that it may disrupt the financial district so important to Hong Kong's economy once markets open on Monday.

6) On Sunday, police fired tear gas

This was a major and highly unusual escalation in a city where peaceful protest is common.

7) A defiant protester stands amid a huge cloud of tear gas

8) A demonstrator has water poured on his face to try to ease the burning

9) Armed riot police tried to secure government buildings

They give the streets an eerie sense of military occupation.

10)Thousands of students remained on the streets Sunday night

It's not clear what will happen next.

Read our explainer on what's happening in Hong Kong, why it's happening, and why this is such a big deal.

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