Environmental Threats and Political Opportunities: Citizen Activism in the North Bohemian Coal Basin

• DOI: 10.1093/sf/sov072
• Publication Date: 2015-05-21T01:01:34Z
• Authors: Thomas E. Shriver; Alison E. Adams; Stefano B. Longo
• Keywords: Political Activism; Environmentalism

Extant research has established important linkages between threats and social movement mobilization in a variety of political economic settings. Yet, comparatively little attention been paid to the relationship environmental activism. Drawing from literatures sociology movements, we examine coal industry its resultant devastation Czechoslovakia investigate intersection provoking activism highly repressive Using range data sources, illustrate how externalities extreme production coupled with developing weaknesses state ultimately incited public protest against regime. Our analysis North Bohemia provides insight into broader patterns elite legitimacy resistance. findings show that stemming state-mandated Bohemian region posed an imminent threat spurred residents despite harsh repression. We conclude by discussing implications our for future on threats, legitimation, citizen