63 pages • 2 hours read
294
Book • Nonfiction
Global • 2020s
2022
Adult
18+ years
In How Civil Wars Start, Barbara F. Walter examines the risk factors and patterns that lead to civil wars, detailing how modern conflicts differ from historical ones. She underscores how ethnic and cultural tensions, coupled with weak governance and factionalism, create environments ripe for civil unrest. The second half focuses on the growing instability in the US, highlighting factors like Trump’s presidency and the rise of alt-right militias as signs of potential civil war, urging Americans to strengthen democratic institutions to prevent conflict. The book involves acts of violence and other crimes associated with civil wars.
Informative
Mysterious
Unnerving
Challenging
Contemplative
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Barbara F. Walter's How Civil Wars Start has been praised for its rigorous analysis and timely relevance. Reviewers commend its accessible narrative style and deep insights into the causes of civil conflict. However, some critics argue that the book's predictions can be overly alarmist. Overall, it's a thought-provoking and essential read for understanding modern sociopolitical tensions.
A reader interested in How Civil Wars Start by Barbara F. Walter is likely drawn to political science, international relations, and current events. Similar to readers of Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt’s How Democracies Die, they seek to understand the contemporary risks to political stability and the precursors to civil conflict.
7,005 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
294
Book • Nonfiction
Global • 2020s
2022
Adult
18+ years
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