God, Guns, and Sedition: Far-Right Terrorism in America

Shocking acts of terrorism have erupted from violent American far-right extremists in recent years, but these incidents are the latest flashpoints in a process that has been unfolding for decades. God, Guns, and Sedition offers the definitive account of the rise of far-right terrorism in the United States and how to counter it.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 02 January 2024
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Shocking acts of terrorism have erupted from violent American far-right extremists in recent years, including the 2015 mass murder at a historic Black church in Charleston and the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. These incidents, however, are neither novel nor unprecedented. They are the latest flashpoints in a process that has been unfolding for decades, in which vast conspiracy theories and radical ideologies such as white supremacism, racism, antisemitism, xenophobia, and hostility to government converge into a deadly threat to democracy.

God, Guns, and Sedition offers the definitive account of the rise of far-right terrorism in the United States—and how to counter it. Leading experts Bruce Hoffman and Jacob Ware trace the historical trajectory and assess the present-day dangers of this violent extremist movement, along with the harm it poses to U.S. national security. They combine authoritative, nuanced analysis with gripping storytelling and portraits of the leaders behind this violence and their followers. Hoffman and Ware highlight key terrorist tactics, such as the use of cutting-edge communications technology; the embrace of leaderless resistance or lone-wolf strategies; infiltration and recruitment in the military and law enforcement; and the movements intricate relationship with mainstream politics. An unparalleled examination of one of today's great perils, God, Guns, and Sedition ends with an array of essential practical recommendations to halt the growth of violent far-right extremism and address this global terrorist threat.

The book begins by examining the historical roots of far-right terrorism in the United States, tracing its evolution from the ** **** **** and other white supremacist organizations to the present-day movement. Hoffman and Ware argue that the rise of far-right terrorism is not simply a result of individual psychopathology or political grievances, but rather a product of a broader social and political environment that has been conducive to the growth of extremist ideologies. They highlight the role of social media, online forums, and other digital platforms in spreading extremist messages and recruiting followers, as well as the influence of mainstream media and political institutions in legitimizing these ideologies.

In the second chapter, Hoffman and Ware delve into the tactics and strategies used by far-right terrorists. They discuss the use of propaganda, misinformation, and fear-mongering to spread extremist messages and recruit followers, as well as the use of violence and intimidation to achieve political goals. They also examine the role of lone-wolf terrorists, who operate without the support of organized groups, and the challenges they pose to law enforcement and national security.

The third chapter explores the relationship between far-right terrorism and mainstream politics. Hoffman and Ware argue that far-right politicians and organizations have been able to gain significant influence in American politics, particularly in the Republican Party. They highlight the role of political polarization, the rise of populism, and the decline of traditional political institutions in creating an environment that is conducive to the growth of far-right extremism.

In the fourth chapter, Hoffman and Ware examine the impact of far-right terrorism on American society. They discuss the harm it poses to minority groups, such as African Americans, Muslims, and Jews, as well as the broader social and economic consequences of this violence. They also examine the challenges faced by law enforcement and national security agencies in responding to these threats, and the need for greater cooperation and coordination between these agencies and other stakeholders.

The fifth chapter offers practical recommendations to counter the rise of far-right terrorism. Hoffman and Ware argue that the response to far-right terrorism must be multifaceted and comprehensive, involving both law enforcement and social and political interventions. They suggest measures such as increased surveillance and monitoring of extremist groups, improved counterterrorism training for law enforcement and military personnel, and greater efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in American society.

In conclusion, God, Guns, and Sedition is a powerful and essential book for anyone interested in understanding the rise of far-right terrorism in the United States and the challenges it poses to our democracy. By combining authoritative
authoritative analysis with gripping storytelling and portraits of the leaders behind this violence and their followers, Hoffman and Ware provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of this complex and urgent issue. This book is a must-read for policymakers, law enforcement officials, community leaders, and anyone who wants to help build a more inclusive and peaceful society.

Weight: 748g
Dimension: 239 x 165 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231211222