This research investigates political transitions in Africa. The research focuses on the structure of political institutions in 46 nations in Sub-Saharan Africa in the years 1975-1995. Extensive data is collected on country-specific political reform, political violence and economic development. The research addresses the extent to which political institutions vary in Africa and then turns to demonstrating how political reform is affected by economic growth and development. The research also shows how political reform and economic development is mediated by the extent of political violence in a country. This research produces considerable insight into the ways in which macro-level phenomenon like economic conditions and levels of violence affect democratic reforms.
