How Civil Wars Start: A Conversation with Barbara F. Walter & Michael German

Описание: Is political discord in the United States a warning sign? Is our democracy so fractured it could fail? And what can we do now to stop violence before it starts?

The United States has long been known for its optimism. We trust that peace prevails, our institutions are unshakable, and our democracy is unbreakable. Yet, if we don’t recognize the warning signs, America could face a second civil war. The plot in 2020 by an anti-government militia to assassinate Michigan Gov. Gretchen Witmer, along with the January 6th Capitol attacks, are signs of a bitterly divided country.

Hundreds of civil wars have occurred around the globe in the past 75 years. They begin and escalate in predictable ways, following a script with the same triggers. In the past decade, America has undergone seismic changes in cultural and economic power. Demographics have shifted, and inequality has grown. Our government has been weakened, and citizens are held captive by demagogues. Personal discontent leads to anger, resentment, radicalization — even violence. Factionalization occurs with political parties based on ethnic, religious, or racial identity.

All these factors create a fertile breeding ground for political violence, particularly among the far-right as they experience a loss of status. Political scientist Barbara Walter analyzes how “sons of soil” groups tend to start civil wars along with how America is riddled with factions, many who feel a loss of hope. Brennan Center fellow and former FBI special agent Mike German, an expert on law enforcement, intelligence oversight, and domestic extremism, will moderate.

Speakers:
Barbara F. Walter, Rohr Professor of International Relations, School of Global Policy and Strategy, University of California, San Diego; Author, How Civil Wars Start And How To Stop Them
Mike German, Fellow, Liberty & National Security Program, Brennan Center