'In this compelling work, Charles Tilly brings his unrivaled historical knowledge to bear on fundamental questions of democracy. His argument focuses on long-run social processes, not only those that further democratization but also those that often rapidly undermine it. In restoring the centrality of history to scholarship on democratization, he sets a research agenda that will occupy scholars for some time to come.' Elisabeth Jean Wood, Yale University and the Santa Fe Institute<br />'Accessibly written, the volume will reward a broad readership.' Political Studies Review<br />'Tilly presents the book as the 'culmination and synthesis' (p. xii) of his democratisation work and its final pages contain a provocative challenge to those in the democratisation business. ... those interested in promoting democracy should focus on supporting the three process-based developments he identifies. Accessibly written, the volume will reward a broad readership.'' Political Studies Review