How the Swing Riots Sped Collective Action Across 19th Century England

This study investigates social dynamics during collective action by analyzing the diffusion of the Swing Riots across England in 1830-31.

New Findings

The research challenges conventional narratives about the spread of such movements, revealing unexpected patterns.

Data & Methods

Drawing on archival records and spatial analysis techniques to map riot propagation throughout rural areas.

Key Insights

• Collective action did not originate from a single epicenter but rather spread through interconnected social networks.
• Local variations in response were influenced by regional differences in labor relations, contrary to previous assumptions of homogeneity.
• The study demonstrates how information diffusion shapes large-scale collective behavior during periods of economic distress.

Political Significance

These findings offer crucial insights into understanding the mechanics and heterogeneity of social movements historically.