Caught in the Crossfire

Revolution, Repression, and the Rational Peasant

By: David T. Mason

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eText | 16 February 2004 | Edition Number 1

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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?

Industry Reviews

Mason has produced a highly effective review of scholarship and perspectives on peasant/rural-based civil wars?defined as revolutions aimed at overthrowing the government and wars of secession when the goal is separate sovereignty. This impressive work iswell organized and thorough. It offers instructive reading for public scholars and public policy makers in an era that continues to see revolts resultant from economic inequality and ethnic and religious divisions within weak states. Highly recommended....