Bridging Centuries of Solidarity: Interpersonal Communication Strategies in the French Revolution and Nigerian EndSARS Movement

Abstract

This paper examines the role of interpersonal communication in fostering solidarity and mobilizing collective action in two distinct social movements: the French Revolution (1789–1799) and the EndSARS protests (2020). Using a comparative case study approach, the research analyzes historical records, pamphlets, and personal diaries for the French Revolution, alongside protestor testimonials, social media data, and media reports for EndSARS. Qualitative methods were employed to code and categorize communication strategies, focusing on oral, written, and digital methods. The findings reveal that while the French Revolution relied on face-to-face interactions, pamphlets, and informal networks, the EndSARS protests utilized a hybrid communication model that integrated grassroots interpersonal methods with digital platforms. Despite technological advancements, both movements demonstrated the enduring importance of interpersonal communication in building solidarity and maintaining momentum. Comparative analysis highlights key similarities, such as the emphasis on grassroots interactions and adaptation to sociopolitical constraints, as well as differences, including the speed and scalability afforded by digital tools in EndSARS. The discussion underscores the implications of these findings for the success of future movements, emphasizing the need to integrate traditional and digital communication strategies to foster unity and resilience. This study contributes to the understanding of how communication dynamics evolve across historical and modern contexts, offering practical insights for organizers of social movements.