Coercive rhetorical strategy in political conflict: A case study of the Trent affair

In this study the British reaction to the seizure of Mason and Slidell from on board the Trent is examined in order to suggest characteristics of coercive rhetorical strategy. It is hypothesized that the strategy grew directly out of the context which brought together conviction of opinion and ability to use force successfully against an intransigent opponent. The coercive strategy is one of compliance, bringing into play a repertoire of suitable tactics.