Black flags and social movements is an in-depth analysis of contemporary anarchist movements as interpreted by social movement theories and political sociology. Using unique data gathered by anarchists themselves, Williams presents longitudinal and international analyses that focus upon who anarchists are, and where they may be found. Even though scholars have studiously avoided the contradictions and complications that anti-state movements present for their theories, numerous social movement ideas including political opportunity, new social movements, and social capital theory, are relevant and adaptable to understanding anarchist movements. Due to their numbers and identities as radical anti-authoritarians, anarchists often find themselves collaborating with numerous other social movements, bringing along their values, ideas and tactics. This book helps to demystify anarchist movements, using these various vantage points. Black Flags and Social Movements will interest sociologists, social movement students, and anarchist studies scholars.