Explain the concept of ‘political opportunity structure’ as used in the chapter ‘When People Rebel’ and give one example from the 1857 revolt illustrating this concept.
Answer
Political opportunity structure refers to the openings and constraints created by the political environment that rebels perceive and exploit. During the 1857 revolt, the British decision to replace locally trusted sepoys with new recruits created a perception of weakness, which rebels used as a political opportunity to mobilise large sections of the population.
Step-by-step solution
- Define political opportunity structure – the perceived openings in the political system that allow rebellion;
- Explain how it involves both opportunities (weaknesses) and constraints (repression);
- Provide a historical example: the 1857 revolt where British military changes were seen as a weakness;
- Show how rebels capitalised on this perception to galvanise support.
Common mistake: Confusing it with the collective action problem
Concept tested: Political opportunity structure
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