> maybe it wasn't squeezed out by an embargo, but it shows that people can overthrow a government.

Absolutely, I don't question that. And economic issues can be a powerful force toward revolution.

But foreign sanctions always seem to strengthen the regime and provide a convenient excuse even for economic issues that aren't caused by the sanctions. Sanctions seem to make revolution far less likely, which isn't the desired outcome at all.

I guess I have to agree with you here, because I can't come up with a proper example.

But remark that economic sanctions do have its use by not pumping more money into aggressive nations.