The Mutiny Wagon Wheel: A Leadership Model for Mutiny in Combat

In: Armed forces & society, Band 28, Heft 4, S. 575-600

Abstract

This article provides and analyzes the factors present during incidents of military mutiny. It proposes a model that explains how leadership interacts with factors present in combat units to assist in determining when mutiny is possible and how the actions of leaders influence its formation. By first defining the factors present during mutiny as they apply to front line combat soldiers, the foundation for examining mutiny is established. Also examined are the symptoms of mutiny and probable portents for the future of the phenomenon. The eight factors that influence the formation of mutiny are alienation, environment, values and hope, combat experience, training, discipline, primary groups, and finally leadership. This article explores how leadership determines when and where mutiny will strike, and proposes remedies for military leaders using the leadership doctrine of the United States Army.