Abstract
This thesis focuses on the political behaviour of 1948 Palestinians (commonly known as Israeli-Arabs); trying to understand its nature, and explain the contributing factors and dynamics of such behaviour. This is done through the analysis of two specific case studies, 1976 Land Day and Habbat October 2000, chosen from the modern history of 1948 Palestinians. The two case studies, which represent examples of outstanding 1948 Palestinian political mobilization against Israeli injustices, are analysed using three theoretical social movement approaches; political opportunity structure, resource mobilization, and frame analysis. A comparison, then, is drawn between the two case studies to locate the patterns and similarities.This thesis argues that the dynamics of mobilization particularly involving a set of variables, mainly the existence of strong grievances and the positive framing of resources and political opportunities, are most useful in explaining social movement. Furthermore, the analysis of the case studies in this thesis illustrates how the change in the way grievances are perceived and acted upon, on top of a gradual change in perceptions of what is possible (especially in the years leading up to the 1976 Land Day and Habbat October, but also throughout the events) have influenced the particular way a cycle of protest is played out.
The thesis aims to increase the insight into the dynamics and nature of the political behaviour of 1948 Palestinians and enable a better understanding of future developments. In addition, it aspires to contribute to the general understanding and applicability of social movement theory, while hoping to develop some of its components.
| Date of Award | 24 Mar 2010 |
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| Original language | English |
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| Supervisor | Jeroen Willem Gunning (Supervisor) & Jenny Mathers (Supervisor) |