Path Dependence Through Structural Constraints: A Theory of Coup Recurrence in West Africa

Following independence from colonial powers, most West African countries experienced repeated coup d'états. Though there was a respite in successful coups, coup transitions have made a resurgence in the region over the past few years. This analysis will explore the reasons behind coup resurgence in West African countries. Utilizing path dependency theory, I argue that the first incidence of a coup marks a critical juncture that structurally changes a country's politics and incentivizes repeated coup-plotting in the future.