Riots in Britain: An Analysis

Abstract

Peace and tranquility in Britain was seriously disrupted by a spate of riots in different parts of the country from April to July 1981. It is estimated that the riots, which affected Birmingham, Brixton, Liverpool, Manchester, Southall, etc., caused damage to properties worth about £45 million.¹ Although some commentators have collectively characterized these riots as “racial,” a closer look into their nature and participation would reveal that the riots were caused by a combination of factors, including race, unemployment, hooliganism, alienation of the youth, unsatisfactory housing conditions, suspicion over the impartiality of the police, etc.