Greek police fire teargas to disperse rioting youths, after thousands march through Athens yesterday. They are commemorating the November 1973 student uprising that was later crushed by the military junta that formerly ruled the country.

Thousands of people beat drums and chant slogans like “education, security, work.” Anti-war and anti-police protesters also participated, and these groups expressed grievances over the economy and education.

The youths attacked riot police with stones, set fire to bins and destroyed cars on Athens' Alexandras Avenue.

The annual march marks the uprising at the Athens Polytechnic University. Dozens died when tanks rolled through the school gates and surrounding streets.

The revolt heralded the end of dictatorship. Shops closed and traffic stalled, as the march, led by a blood-stained flag, passed through the city before heading to the U.S. embassy.

Self-proclaimed anarchists usually trail the march and clash with police. This year, a group of anarchists dressed in black held a banner reading "Remember, Remember the 6th of December" to mark the police shooting of a teenager and a violent uprising in Athens last year.

Police say they have arrested one youth and detained 12 other youths for carrying petrol bombs and pelting rocks at police.

Thirteen officers and one protester were injured.