Report from Athens ... A day after violent anti-American protests, U.S. President Bill Clinton sought to heal old wounds Saturday (Nov. 21, 1999) by acknowledging the United States failed its "obligation to support democracy" when it backed Greek's harsh military junta during the cold war.

Tens of thousands of democrats take to streets each year on Nov. 17 to denounce the U.S. and mark the anniversary of a bloody crackdown against student demonstrators in 1973 by the old military regime.

Many Greeks blamed what they saw as the U.S. meddling in Greek affairs.

Clinton said people have the right to demonstrate --- especially in Greece, the birthplace of democracy --- but that "I strongly believe the protests should be peaceful."