The Fallen State: Dissonance, Dictatorship and Death in Somalia

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0761808973 ISBN 13: 9780761808978

Publisher: UPA, 1997

This book examines the problems of the first thirty years of African independence. Using Somalia as a case study, the author investigates the factors that have led to the present chaos. Somalia suffered the illnesses of other newly independent African states, including experiments in 'democracy' based on the Westminster model and excesses in the parliamentary system. The military government which followed attempted to effect certain reforms encompassing higher literacy rates and greater participation of women in public affairs; but wars, juntas, and droughts have all conspired to defeat the new state. In the wake of economic collapse, regime legitimacy disappeared, and 'ethnic' conflicts ensued. Peace among the warring clans and re-establishment of legitimate authority is still to come.

Review:

This thoughtful, informative work presents a well written portrayal of the collapse of the Somalia state during the reign of Siad Barre....belongs in the library of any serious student of the African State. (John W. Harbeson Journal of Counterterrorism and Homeland Security)

The Fallen State...is a welcome addition to the literature on Somalia. (Benyamin Neuberger, The Open University of Israel African Studies Review)

Hashim's book adds to our understanding of the shattered African dreams concerning development and progress. (Robert Patman International Journal of African Historical Studies)

A fantastic and intriguing book...on Somali history of recent years. (John W. Johnson, Indiana University)