ABSTRACT
Since the late 1950s political theorists have developed theoretical perspectives of factors contributing to changes in a political culture. This article discusses the way these perspectives assist in understanding a shift in the African National Congress of South Africa's view of violence as a political tactic. Specifically it examines the way institutional formation, political developments, and alliances, contributed to the legitimation of violence. It concludes with a discussion of developments which are causing this legitimation to be re‐assessed.