Caught in the Crossfire: Revolution, Repression, and the Rational Peasant

By T. David Mason

Book Overview

Caught in the Crossfire presents a multifaceted explanation of why people participate in something as dangerous and uncertain as a revolutionary movement. Beginning with an analysis of the grievances that motivate peasant participation in political movements, the book also explores the additional factors_leadership, resources, and strategies_required to mobilize peasants for collective action. Collective action itself need not be violent, but a repressive state response can quickly transform a reformist movement into a revolution. Mason shows how different strategies on the part of various actors can result in a government victory, a rebel victory, or a negotiated settlement. The book concludes with a look to the future: Will the emerging trends toward political democratization and economic globalization make revolution in the countryside more or less likely?

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0742525384
• ISBN13: 9780742525382
• Release Date: February 2004
• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
• Length: 328 Pages
• Dimensions: 6.0" x 9.0"