How Civil Wars Start: And How to Stop Them by Barbara F. Walter

Barbara F. Walter's "New York Times" bestseller is a compelling examination of the rising threat of violent extremism and the looming specter of civil war in the United States. Drawing on her extensive research on civil conflict in various parts of the world, Walter sounds the alarm on the increasing likelihood of a second civil war in America.

Walter highlights the troubling incidents of political violence and extremism that have rocked the country, from armed militias plotting against state officials to the storming of the U.S. Capitol by a mob of Trump supporters. She argues that these events are not isolated but are part of a larger trend that could lead to widespread civil conflict.

Walter's analysis reveals that countries in the middle ground, neither autocracies nor healthy democracies, are most susceptible to civil war. Using the latest international research and insights from over twenty countries, Walter identifies key risk factors that can lead to civil conflict, including democratic backsliding, factionalization, and the politics of resentment.

Importantly, Walter warns that a modern civil war in the United States would look very different from historical conflicts. It would likely start with sporadic acts of violence and be fueled by social media, catching many by surprise.

"New York Times" describes Walter's book as "required reading for anyone invested in preserving our 246-year experiment in self-government." With its urgent message and insightful analysis, Walter's book provides a crucial framework for understanding and addressing the danger of civil war before it's too late.