States of Siege: U.S. Prison Riots 1971-1986

By Bert Useem

Book Overview

This book examines case studies of recent prison riots in five states, including the 1971 radical uprising in Attica, New York, and the infamous 1981 bloodbath at the New Mexico Penitentiary. The most extensive and detailed work yet written on US prison riots, the authors explain the occurrence and variations of riots as a reflection of the administrative breakdown of the prison system within a changing ideological context. A theoretical appendix helps make this work an ideal introduction to sociological theories of collective action.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0195072715
• ISBN13: 9780195072716
• Release Date: July 1991
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 0.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.6" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Excellent

This book is that rarest of finds - a scholarly analysis written in an engaging, accessible style. Worthwhile reading for the merely curious as well as students of sociology, criminology, or psychology.

An excellent riot book

This book was an excellent resource of learning about prison riots. Not only did it describe actions that took place in a detailed manner, but it also brought to light some of the causes contributing to the riots...a must read for corrections officers.