An insurrection is a violent uprising against the government or those in power. When people attempt an insurrection, they're actively trying to overthrow or resist the authority of their government through force, going beyond speech or peaceful assembly to use violence.

Throughout history, insurrections have happened when groups felt desperate enough to take up arms against their rulers. The American Revolution began as an insurrection against British rule. France experienced many insurrections during its tumultuous history, including the famous storming of the Bastille in 1789.

An insurrection is different from peaceful protest, which is a protected right in democracies like the United States. It's also different from a coup, which typically involves military leaders or government insiders seizing power. An insurrection comes from outside the government structure and involves open, violent resistance.

The word carries serious weight. Governments treat insurrection as one of the gravest crimes because it threatens the basic order that allows society to function.