POL 144: Military Intervention in Africa

Precipitants of Coups in Africa

• A commonly recognized precipitant of coups in Africa is economic decline.

Problems Associated with Military Coups

• A significant problem associated with military coups is the undermining of democratic institutions.

Factors NOT Contributing to Coups

• High levels of public trust in the government does NOT contribute to the possibility of a coup.

Types of Coups

• Classic coups are characterized by a focus on military intervention.

Socio-Economic Conditions Before Coups

• A true statement about socio-economic conditions prior to a coup is that economic inequality often fuels discontent and serves as a catalyst for instability.

Outcomes of Military Coups

• One potential outcome of military coups in Africa is the emergence of authoritarian regimes.

Military-Civilian Hybrid Regimes

• The term "hybrid regimes" describes military-civilian hybrid regimes that emerge after military coups.

Breakthrough Coups

• Breakthrough coups are associated with transformative changes in the political landscape, leading to significant shifts in power dynamics.

Characteristics of Military Intervention

• Military interventions in Africa are often characterized by a lack of clear objectives and a failure to address underlying political issues.

Challenges in Establishing Legitimacy

• One of the main challenges in establishing legitimacy after military coups is the absence of a clear mandate from the people.

Purpose of Coercion

• The primary purpose of coercion in political contexts is to enforce compliance and maintain order.

Distinction of Military Coups

• Military coups d'état are distinguished from other forms of government transition by their reliance on military force to seize power.

Roles of Coercive Agencies in Democracy

• In a democratic government, coercive agencies play a limited role and are subject to civilian control.

Characteristics of Military Coups

• Military coups are often characterized by a sudden and forceful seizure of power, typically involving the use of violence or threats of violence.

Coercion in Political Settings

• Coercion is often used in political settings to achieve specific goals, but it is a risky strategy that can backfire if not handled carefully.

Consequences of Military Coups

• The main consequence of a military coup d'état is typically political instability and often a decline in economic development.

Definition of Coercion in Politics

• Coercion in a political context involves the use of force or threat of force to influence the behavior of individuals or groups.

Political Leaders and Coercive Agencies

• The relationship between political leaders and coercive agencies is often complex and fraught with tension.

This quiz focuses on chapter 7 of An Introduction to African Politics, exploring the dynamics of military intervention and coups d'état in Africa. Key topics include causes, types, and consequences of military actions within political contexts. Assess your understanding and insight into these critical issues in African politics.