Mobilization and Conflict in Multiethnic States

Why are some multiethnic countries more prone to civil violence than others? This book examines the occurrence and forms of conflict in multiethnic states. It presents a theory that explains not only why ethnic groups rebel but also how they rebel. It shows that in extremely unequal societies, conflict typically occurs in non-violent forms because marginalized groups lack both the resources and the opportunities for violent revolt. In contrast, in more equal, butsegmented multiethnic societies, violent conflict is more likely. To support his theory, the author combines statistical analyses with evidence from field research in four different countries in both Sub-Saharan African and Latin America.