Description
Book SynopsisTrade ReviewIn a well-reasoned analysis, the author of this book describes and explains a decline in military coups over the past eight centuries in certain nations . . . .His argument is persuasive. . . .Perkins's Vanishing Coup constitutes the best study currently in print on what produces military coups and what prevents them. * Historian *
By the end of the book . . . it is clear that Perkins’ overall thesis is sound and significant. . . .Vanishing Coup will make valuable reading for diplomats, scholars, or NGO leaders working in disputed areas. . . .Perkins . . . has identified an essential element to the remarkable peace that seems to have contributed to the cessation of the historical bellum omnium contra omnes in the last 50-150 years. * Global Policy *
Ivan Perkins has identified a momentous yet underappreciated development in human history and has assembled a vast amount of evidence and a coherent narrative around it. Vanishing Coup is a major contribution to history and political science and a fascinating read. -- Steven Pinker, Johnstone Professor of Psychology, Harvard University, and the author of The Better Angels of Our Nature and Enlightenment Now
Perkins makes a significant contribution with this well-written and interesting book. Surveying a far broader range of historical circumstances than most scholars attempt, he arrives at sweeping conclusions relating to both international warfare and domestic violence. His emphasis on elements of political culture, notably rule of law and transparency, deserves a prominent place in discussions on how to preserve governments and foster peace. -- Spencer Weart, author of Never at War: Why Democracies Will Not Fight One Another
Table of ContentsPart I: Solid States Chapter 1: The Coup-Free Zone Chapter 2: The Most Serene Republic Chapter 3: The Last British Revolutionary Chapter 4: The Coup-Free State Chapter 5: George Washington: The Anti-Napoleon Part II: Interlude: Deep Background Chapter 6: True Banana Republics Chapter 7: Intoxicating Republican Moments Part III: The International Arena Chapter 8: Self-Interest, Stupidity, and Confusion Chapter 9: A Brief History of Meddling Chapter 10: The Neutrality Privilege Chapter 11: Best Friends Epilogue
