On the positive side, Sharp noted, “As tension increases, morale rises and large numbers of formerly passive people become determined to take part in the coming struggle.” Unfortunately, there are less desirable consequences as well. The “previous period of indifference,” Sharp noted, is replaced by one where there is “active antagonism.” Reactionaries who are opposed to the movement’s cause will rise to defend the status quo, mobilizing a backlash. In instances when the backlash is powerful, it can look like activists are worse off for having picked a fight—especially if vocal opposition is
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State repression
