Abstract

In this book, Ronald Francisco traces political transformation from its roots to its results in countries ranging from Argentina to Haiti, Iran, South Korea, and Ukraine. He analyzes how regimes fail, how new ones arise, and what it takes to forge stability and democratic government. Following the political trajectories of forty-five different countries, Francisco highlights the process of transition, from collapse to consolidation of power, showing the sober realities in between: ethnic strife, economic disruption, and the magnet of nationalism and fundamental religion within emerging polities. Offering a balanced mix of theory and experience drawn directly from an unstable international context, this book will serve those interested in following developments in the complex and changing arena of comparative politics.