Legitimacy & Political Instability: Case Studies On U.S. Military Intervention

Abstract

This thesis explores the research question: How does US military intervention impact the political stability of the host state during and after a conflict? US intervention and the implementation of policies by the US in the host state during and after the conflict both aid and hinder the rebuilding and development of the host state in the aftermath of the conflict. Actions taken by the US during the state-building process through policies regarding military presence and aid influenced the strength of the host country in building legitimacy and in creating a political stable system, such as through the implementation of treaties or aid. This research explores cases studies, the Korean War of 1950-1953 and the Iraq War of 2003-2011, in order to create a framework for analyzing US military intervention through the lens of political stability and provides a starting point for further research in this area. I begin by discussing key concepts for the thesis and outlining the analytical framework I created, then explore each case individually, before finally comparing them to draw larger conclusions about the research question. This thesis focuses on economic development, continued violence, and legitimacy as the factors for political stability. The analysis and comparison of the two cases showed that action and lack of action from the US in the aftermath of political intervention has implications for the success of the host state in rebuilding. Economic aid provided by the US aided economic development, the methods and reasons for withdrawal lended to continuing conflict in the host state, and the type of relationship between the US and the host state had an influence on the establishment of legitimacy for the host state's government.