Liberia's First Civil War: A Narrative History

This book provides a comprehensive narrative history of Liberias first civil war,from its origins in the 1980s to the peace agreement and conclusion of hostilities in 1997. It explores the long-term and immediate causes of the war,the roles played by various actors,and the impact of the conflict on Liberians and the wider world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book offers a comprehensive and detailed account of Liberia's first civil war, spanning from its origins in the 1980s to its conclusion in 1997. It provides a thorough narrative history of the conflict, examining its roots, causes, and the various stages it went through, including the outbreak of hostilities, the ceasefire, the peace agreement, and the subsequent elections.

The war, which lasted for over a decade, claimed the lives of over 200,000 Liberians and had far-reaching consequences for the country and the region. The book draws on a wide range of local and international sources, including first-hand accounts from Roman Catholic indigenous and missionary sources, offering a unique perspective on the conflict.

The book explores the various factors that contributed to the war, including political, economic, and social grievances. It also examines the roles played by individual warlords, peacemakers, non-governmental agencies, national, regional, and international actors, including the United Nations, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the Organization of African Unity (OAU).

In particular, the book sheds light on the impact of Liberias individual warlords, such as Charles Taylor and Samuel Doe, and their role in perpetuating the conflict. It also discusses the roles played by peacemakers, such as former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, in brokering the peace agreement and overseeing the transition to democracy.

The book also provides a detailed analysis of the peace agreement itself, including its provisions for disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of ex-combatants. It examines the challenges faced by the Liberian government and international actors in implementing the agreement and the steps taken to promote stability and reconciliation in the country.

Overall, this book is an essential read for anyone with an interest in the Liberian conflict, including researchers within African studies, political science, contemporary history, international relations, and peace and conflict studies. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the war and its aftermath, providing valuable insights into the complex dynamics of conflict resolution and post-conflict reconstruction.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032113050