In Hong Kong, Hope That China's Soldiers Will Keep Out

Angus Tang is prepared. Like thousands of other Hong Kong students, he has joined demonstrations in the city’s financial district, hoping to force leaders in Hong Kong and Beijing to follow through on promises of democracy. Sitting in the street in front of billionaire Li Ka-shing’s Hutchison Whampoa headquarters, Tang, 22, and his classmates have a collection of first-aid supplies for their fellow protesters: rubbing alcohol, contact-lens solution, and baby wipes. “It’s for the tear gas,” explains Tang.

Many of the students believe the protests can still end without bloodshed. After all, Chinese leaders will behave reasonably, argues Tang, and won’t risk repeating a Tiananmen-style crackdown. “The Chinese government has been trying to develop a better image,” he says. “That would be totally changed in one day if they were to use violence.”