In Turkey, the unrest wasn't confined to Istanbul. There were violent clashes in Ankara and in cities along the coast ---making for one of largest outpourings of anti-government sentiment in years.<br/> <br />While Friday's violence may have been sparked by a dawn raid on demonstrators camped out in Taksim Square --- a popular rallying point for opposition members, anger with Prime Minister Tayip Erdogan's leadership runs deep.<br/> <br />He has been accused of using 'excessive force' and for jailing hundreds of military officers, journalists, and academics on grounds they were plotting to overthrown him.<br/> <br />Police turned to water cannons and tear gas to break up protests. Dozens were arrested and hundreds reported respiratory problems with several -- including a pro-Kurdish Member of Parliament and a Reuters photographer -- suffering trauma injuries.<br/> <br />Officials said they plan to investigate claims police used excessive force.
