people peacefully protest because at that point they are trying to win a PR campaign. They also think and know that many other people think that violence is never the solution. That is of course not true at all, The problem is that the reality is most people are sheep and will do whatever those in power say. They don't care who it is, or if they are free. If a new government takes over, they won't care as long as they are promised a roof and food and a feeling of security from being homeless. Think of the pussy hat protests and marches. How much did they accomplish...nothing. BLM? that got attention didn't it. Conflicts are fought with violence and money. Marches can raise moral but effectively do nothing unless they turn into something more than a march.