Why Wars Are Necessary?
Introduction
Wars have been a defining element in shaping human history, societies, and global politics. From the earliest recorded conflicts between ancient civilizations to the modern-day battles fought across continents, war has served as both a destructive force and a catalyst for change.
While the devastation caused by warfare is undeniable, wars have also influenced the political borders, economic systems, and ideological frameworks of nations, making their role in history complex and multifaceted.
But why are wars necessary? What compels nations to resort to conflict when diplomacy could provide an alternative? These questions have puzzled historians, political theorists, and world leaders for centuries. Although the notion of “necessity” when it comes to war can be controversial, wars are often seen as inevitable responses to unresolved tensions—whether they stem from political disputes, economic rivalries, or cultural clashes. As a result, wars have sometimes been perceived as a necessary evil to achieve long-term peace, establish justice, or preserve national interests.
In this article, we will explore the deep-seated reasons behind the necessity of wars from various perspectives. We’ll examine the historical role of wars in shaping the world we live in today, the political dynamics that drive nations to conflict, and the economic and social factors that fuel disputes between countries. Moreover, we’ll discuss how diplomacy fits into the broader conversation of conflict resolution, questioning whether war can ever truly be avoided or if it remains an inherent part of human nature.
Historical Context – How Wars Shaped Modern Nations
Wars, as devastating as they are, have played a pivotal role in shaping the political and geographical landscape of the modern world. Throughout history, conflicts have acted as major turning points, leading to the rise and fall of empires, the formation of new nations, and the redrawing of borders. While many view war as the ultimate failure of diplomacy, history shows that certain conflicts have resulted in significant long-term political changes that have defined the present global order.
Ancient Wars: The Birth of Civilizations
Key Keywords: ancient wars, rise of empires, civilization conflicts, historical wars
The earliest civilizations, such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Ancient Greece, were frequently embroiled in wars that were not only about survival but also about expanding influence and power. The wars fought between the Greek city-states, for instance, shaped the future of Western political thought and democracy. The Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta is a classic example of how war dictated the balance of power, reshaping alliances and leading to shifts in political structures that influenced Western governance systems for centuries.
In Mesopotamia, one of the first recorded wars was fought around 2700 BC between the Sumerians and their rivals, the Elamites. This conflict not only altered the region’s control but also laid the groundwork for future empires like Akkad and Babylon. In these early civilizations, war was an integral part of territorial expansion, establishing dominance, and securing resources, underscoring its importance in the formation of early states.
Internal Link: Discover how ancient wars influenced modern diplomatic strategies in our article on The Diplomacy of Ancient Empires.
Formation of Modern Nations: From Revolution to Independence
Key Keywords: revolutionary wars, independence movements, nation-state formation, modern conflicts
Fast forward to more recent history, and we see how wars were instrumental in forming modern nation-states. The American Revolutionary War (1775–1783), for example, marked the birth of the United States, establishing a new form of governance that emphasized independence and democracy. This war, fought between the American colonies and the British Empire, is a prime example of conflict leading to nation-building. Without the war, it’s unlikely that the United States, as we know it today, would have emerged as a global superpower.
Similarly, the French Revolution (1789–1799) and the subsequent Napoleonic Wars (1803–1815) radically transformed Europe, toppling monarchies, spreading ideas of nationalism, and leading to the formation of several new states. These wars led to significant political and social change, particularly in the spread of republicanism and the decline of absolute monarchies, directly impacting how modern states operate.
World Wars and the Global Order
Key Keywords: World War I, World War II, global conflicts, post-war diplomacy, creation of the UN
Perhaps the most dramatic examples of how wars shaped the modern world are the two World Wars of the 20th century. World War I (1914–1918) not only redrew the map of Europe but also set the stage for World War II (1939–1945). After the dust settled from these massive conflicts, the world saw the creation of several international organizations and treaties aimed at preventing future wars, such as the League of Nations and later the United Nations.
World War II, in particular, had a profound effect on the global order. It resulted in the downfall of fascism in Europe, the rise of the United States and the Soviet Union as superpowers, and the beginning of the Cold War. Moreover, the geopolitical shifts after the war, including the decolonization of Africa and Asia, led to the independence of numerous countries and the establishment of the modern-day international system of sovereign states.
Internal Link: Read more about how World War II shaped modern diplomacy and international relations in our blog on The Post-War World: Diplomacy and New Global Powers.
The Role of War in Political Realignments
Key Keywords: War-driven Political Change, Post-War Treaties, Political Realignments
One of the most notable impacts of war is its ability to force political realignments. Treaties signed after wars often lay the groundwork for new political orders. For instance, the Treaty of Versailles, signed after World War I, was intended to prevent future conflicts but instead contributed to economic and political instability in Germany, which ultimately led to the outbreak of World War II. Similarly, the peace agreements and diplomatic efforts following World War II, such as the Marshall Plan and the formation of NATO, were key in rebuilding war-torn Europe and creating the alliances that define global politics to this day.
In the broader context of history, wars have acted as significant disruptors, leading to shifts in political, social, and economic structures. They’ve driven technological innovations, catalyzed social movements, and spurred reforms that may not have been possible through diplomacy alone. In essence, while war is often a last resort, its ability to reshape political landscapes cannot be denied.
War as a Political Tool
Wars are often seen as the ultimate failure of diplomacy, but they can also be used as a political tool, strategically employed by nations to achieve specific objectives when other forms of negotiation or compromise have failed. Throughout history, wars have been initiated to assert dominance, secure national interests, or shift the balance of power in a region. For many political leaders, war becomes an extension of diplomacy when peaceful solutions no longer serve their objectives. This section explores the political motivations behind war and how it has been used as a deliberate strategy to achieve political ends.
War and the Balance of Power
Key Keywords: balance of power, political dominance, geopolitical strategy, military alliances
The concept of the balance of power has long been a driving force behind many wars. In international relations, balance of power refers to the distribution of power among nations, where no single state is strong enough to dominate all others. When this balance is threatened, wars often occur as a means to restore it. The Napoleonic Wars (1803–1815), for example, were driven in part by Napoleon’s efforts to expand the French Empire, which upset the balance of power in Europe. The subsequent coalitions formed by other European nations were designed to curb French expansion and restore stability.
In more recent times, the Cold War (1947–1991) between the United States and the Soviet Union was largely a war of political dominance, where both superpowers sought to maintain influence over global affairs without engaging in direct conflict. Instead, proxy wars, such as the Korean War (1950–1953) and the Vietnam War (1955–1975), were fought as part of a larger geopolitical strategy to assert influence and prevent the opposing ideology—communism or capitalism—from spreading.
War, in this sense, is often about maintaining or challenging the political status quo. Nations go to war not only to defend themselves but also to project power, secure influence, and prevent rivals from gaining too much strength.
Internal Link: Explore how the balance of power theory has shaped global conflicts in our detailed article on Power Politics in the Modern Era.
War as a Means of National Defense and Sovereignty
Key Keywords: national sovereignty, self-defense, territorial integrity, war for independence
One of the most widely accepted justifications for war is the defense of national sovereignty and territorial integrity. When a nation is under threat—either from foreign invasion, aggression, or attempts at regime change—war is often viewed as a necessary act of self-preservation. Historically, wars of self-defense have been seen as legitimate under international law and widely supported by the global community.
For instance, during World War II, countries like the United Kingdom and the Soviet Union went to war to defend themselves against Nazi Germany’s aggressive expansion. Similarly, the Six-Day War (1967) between Israel and its neighboring Arab countries was rooted in the defense of national sovereignty. When a nation’s survival is at stake, the use of military force is often deemed a last but necessary resort to protect its people and borders.
In some cases, wars for national sovereignty are fought not against external aggressors, but to achieve independence from colonial powers or oppressive regimes. The American War of Independence and the Indian Independence Movement against British colonial rule are prime examples of wars where sovereignty and self-determination were the primary motivations.
Internal Link: Learn more about how nations defend their sovereignty in our in-depth look at Wars of Independence and National Defense.
Political Ideology as a Cause for War
Key Keywords: political ideology, ideological conflicts, regime change, war over values
Wars are not only fought over territory or resources; they are also driven by ideological differences. Nations often engage in conflict to promote or defend particular political ideologies, whether that be democracy, communism, nationalism, or religious fundamentalism. These ideological wars are often the most difficult to resolve, as they are rooted in deeply held beliefs that go beyond mere political or economic interests.
A prominent example of an ideological war is the Cold War, where the capitalist West, led by the United States, sought to contain the spread of communism, led by the Soviet Union. While this conflict did not result in direct war between the two superpowers, it led to numerous proxy wars around the world. The Vietnam War, for instance, was not merely a struggle for control over Southeast Asia but also a broader conflict between communism and democracy.
Similarly, religious and cultural ideologies have fueled many historical and modern-day conflicts. The Crusades (1095–1291), for example, were a series of religious wars initiated by the Latin Church, with the goal of reclaiming the Holy Land from Islamic rule. In more recent times, ideological differences between radical Islamist groups and Western powers have fueled conflicts in the Middle East, most notably in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria.
When wars are driven by ideology, they often become deeply entrenched, as the conflict transcends political boundaries and involves a struggle over values, beliefs, and societal structures.
Internal Link: For a more detailed look at how political ideologies fuel conflicts, check out our article on Ideological Wars and the Politics of Belief.
The Use of War to Assert Political Legitimacy
Key Keywords: political legitimacy, regime change, internal conflict, civil wars
In many cases, war is used by leaders or political movements to establish or affirm political legitimacy. This is particularly common in situations of internal conflict, where a government or ruling regime faces opposition from rebel groups, insurgents, or foreign-backed forces seeking regime change. Civil wars, such as the American Civil War (1861–1865) or the Syrian Civil War (2011–present), often revolve around competing claims to political legitimacy, with each side seeking to control the narrative of who is the rightful leader of the state.
External interventions in such conflicts are often justified under the guise of restoring order, democracy, or protecting human rights. However, these wars also serve the interests of the intervening powers, which may seek to install a favorable government or weaken an adversary. The U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, for example, was justified on the grounds of removing a tyrannical regime and establishing democracy, though political motivations and control over resources were also factors.
In these cases, war becomes a tool to secure political authority, whether for domestic control or to shape the geopolitical landscape in favor of external powers.
Internal Link: Explore how political legitimacy plays a role in both internal and external conflicts in our piece on Civil Wars and the Struggle for Power.
Economic Factors That Lead to War
While political and ideological motives often receive the most attention, economic factors frequently underpin the causes of war. Competition over resources, trade disputes, and economic dominance are all powerful drivers of conflict. Nations may go to war to secure vital resources, protect trade routes, or safeguard their economic interests against rivals. In many cases, the economic stakes of a conflict can exacerbate existing political or social tensions, turning disputes into full-scale wars. In this section, we explore the economic factors that have historically led to war and how they continue to shape conflicts in the modern world.
Wars for Resource Control: Oil, Minerals, and Land
Key Keywords: resource wars, control of oil, natural resources, economic conflicts
One of the most common economic causes of war is competition over natural resources. Throughout history, nations have fought over access to valuable resources such as land, water, oil, and minerals. The desire to control these resources often leads to conflict, especially when they are seen as critical to a nation’s economic survival or growth.
A classic example of resource-driven conflict is the series of wars fought over oil in the Middle East. Since the discovery of vast oil reserves in the region, control over these resources has been a major factor in several conflicts, including the Gulf War (1990–1991) and the Iraq War (2003). Oil, as one of the most valuable and strategically important resources, plays a central role in the global economy, and nations that control its supply have significant geopolitical power. The invasion of Kuwait by Iraq in 1990, for instance, was motivated by Iraq’s desire to gain greater control over oil resources and cancel out debts owed to Kuwait. This conflict, in turn, triggered international intervention, leading to the Gulf War.
Wars over land and water resources have also been prevalent throughout history. The Scramble for Africa during the 19th century, where European powers sought to colonize and exploit Africa’s rich natural resources, led to numerous conflicts, both between colonial powers and with indigenous populations. Control over fertile land, valuable minerals, and other natural resources was the driving force behind much of the conflict during this period.
Internal Link: Learn more about the economic motivations behind conflicts in our article on Resource Wars: The Battle for Natural Wealth.
Trade Wars Escalating into Military Conflict
Key Keywords: trade wars, economic sanctions, trade disputes, economic warfare
Trade disputes between nations can also escalate into military conflict when economic tensions become too great. Trade wars, where countries impose tariffs or other restrictions on each other’s goods, can lead to heightened diplomatic tensions that sometimes result in armed confrontation. History provides several examples where economic friction has contributed to war.
One of the most notable examples is the Opium Wars (1839–1842 and 1856–1860) between China and the British Empire. These conflicts were primarily about trade and the British desire to sell opium in China, despite the Chinese government’s opposition to the harmful drug. When China attempted to restrict British trade, the conflict escalated into a military confrontation that resulted in British victory and the imposition of unequal treaties that opened Chinese ports to foreign trade. The Opium Wars highlight how trade disputes, when unresolved diplomatically, can lead to war.
Similarly, the Anglo-Dutch Wars of the 17th century were driven by fierce competition over trade routes and maritime dominance. Both England and the Dutch Republic sought control of global shipping lanes, and their economic rivalry eventually led to a series of naval conflicts. These wars were not just about territory but also about securing economic dominance in global trade.
Economic sanctions, too, can sometimes push nations toward war. When diplomatic and economic measures such as sanctions fail to resolve disputes, they can lead to heightened tensions that escalate into conflict. A more recent example is the ongoing tension between the U.S. and Iran, where sanctions have severely affected Iran’s economy, contributing to rising regional instability.
Internal Link: Discover how trade wars have historically turned into military confrontations in our article on From Tariffs to Tanks: How Trade Disputes Lead to War.
Economic Dominance and Global Power Struggles
Key Keywords: economic dominance, global power struggles, economic superpowers, Cold War economy
In many cases, wars are driven by a nation’s desire to maintain or establish economic dominance. When global or regional powers feel their economic interests are threatened by the rise of a rival, war can become a means of asserting dominance. This type of conflict is closely linked to the desire to control not just resources, but also the economic rules and systems that govern global trade.
During the Cold War, economic competition between the United States and the Soviet Union was a critical aspect of their rivalry. While much of the Cold War consisted of proxy wars fought in various parts of the world, the underlying competition between the two superpowers was about establishing economic and political influence. The U.S. sought to spread capitalism and free-market principles, while the Soviet Union promoted communism and state-controlled economies. This global power struggle extended into space, technology, and military spending, as both nations sought to prove the superiority of their economic systems.
More recently, the rise of China as an economic superpower has caused significant tension with the United States, particularly regarding trade practices, intellectual property rights, and military expansion in the South China Sea. Although this competition has not yet led to open war, the economic rivalry between these two superpowers has significantly affected global politics and has the potential to escalate tensions further.
Internal Link: Read more about the economic dimensions of the Cold War in our blog on The Economics of Conflict: Cold War Superpowers and Global Trade.
The Role of Economic Warfare in Modern Conflicts
Key Keywords: economic warfare, sanctions, embargoes, economic sanctions in war
In addition to traditional warfare, economic warfare has become a powerful tool in modern conflicts. Economic warfare involves the use of economic measures, such as sanctions, embargoes, and trade restrictions, to weaken an adversary without engaging in direct military action. While these tactics are often used as alternatives to war, they can also lead to escalation if the targeted nation retaliates or if economic pressure fails to bring about the desired result.
For instance, the economic sanctions imposed on North Korea in response to its nuclear weapons program have contributed to heightened tensions between North Korea and the international community. Sanctions are intended to pressure the regime into abandoning its nuclear ambitions, but they have also led to increased militarization and isolation. In such cases, economic warfare can create a cycle of escalation, where economic pressure leads to further conflict rather than resolution.
Similarly, the long-standing embargo on Cuba by the United States, which began during the Cold War, has been a source of ongoing tension. Although the embargo was intended to weaken the Cuban government and prompt political change, it has also contributed to economic hardship for the Cuban population, fueling resentment and anti-U.S. sentiment.
Internal Link: Explore how economic warfare shapes modern conflicts in our piece on Sanctions, Embargoes, and Conflict: The Power of Economic Warfare.
Social and Ideological Causes of War
Beyond political and economic factors, wars are often driven by deep-rooted social and ideological divisions. Conflicts arising from differences in race, religion, nationalism, and cultural identity have shaped some of the most significant wars in history. These wars are often fought not only over tangible assets like land or resources but also over abstract concepts such as beliefs, values, and social structures. Social and ideological conflicts are especially potent because they tap into collective identities and can be deeply personal, making them some of the most difficult conflicts to resolve. In this section, we explore the role of social and ideological causes in the outbreak of war.
Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict
Key Keywords: nationalism, ethnic conflict, ethnic wars, identity-based wars
Nationalism—the belief in the superiority or distinctiveness of one’s nation—has historically been a powerful force that fuels wars. When groups within or across borders seek to assert their national identity, especially in multi-ethnic or multi-religious states, it can lead to violent conflict. Nationalism becomes particularly dangerous when it combines with ethnic divisions, leading to conflicts where entire communities are pitted against one another in a struggle for political power, territory, or independence.
One of the most infamous examples of nationalism and ethnic conflict is the Yugoslav Wars (1991–2001). Following the breakup of Yugoslavia, ethnic tensions between Serbs, Croats, Bosniaks, and other ethnic groups erupted into a series of violent conflicts. Fueled by nationalist ambitions and ethnic pride, these wars resulted in mass casualties, ethnic cleansing, and widespread destruction. The war in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in particular, highlighted the destructive power of ethnic nationalism, as the conflict became one of the bloodiest in Europe since World War II.
Ethnic conflicts driven by nationalism can also be seen in Rwanda, where the Rwandan Genocide of 1994 was largely the result of deep-seated ethnic tension between the Hutu majority and the Tutsi minority. The genocide, which resulted in the deaths of an estimated 800,000 Tutsi and moderate Hutu, was fueled by decades of ethnic division and nationalist propaganda.
Nationalism remains a potent force in modern conflicts as well, with ongoing ethnic struggles in regions like the Middle East, the Caucasus, and Africa, where identity-based divisions continue to spark violence.
Internal Link: Discover more about how nationalism and ethnic identity fuel conflict in our article on Ethnic Wars and Nationalism in the 20th Century.
Religious Wars: Faith as a Battlefield
Key Keywords: religious wars, holy wars, religious conflict, sectarian violence
Religious wars are among the oldest and most enduring forms of conflict, often arising from deep ideological divisions within or between nations. When societies are divided along religious lines, disputes over the interpretation of faith, religious dominance, or the rights of religious minorities can easily escalate into war. Historically, religious wars were fought to defend or expand the influence of a particular faith, often with the belief that divine authority justified the conflict.
One of the most well-known examples of religious war is the series of Crusades (1095–1291), where European Christians launched military campaigns to reclaim the Holy Land from Islamic rule. These wars were fueled by religious zeal and the belief that Christianity needed to be defended and spread through force. Though religious in nature, the Crusades were also motivated by political and economic interests, as European powers sought to expand their influence in the Middle East.
In the modern era, religious conflict continues to play a significant role in warfare, particularly in the Middle East, where sectarian violence between Sunni and Shia Muslims has been a major factor in conflicts in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen. These wars are not only about political power but also about deep-rooted religious differences that have been exacerbated by external intervention and regional rivalries.
The rise of Islamic extremism has also brought religious conflict to the forefront of global security concerns. Groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda have used religion as a tool for recruitment and justification of their violent actions, framing their wars as holy struggles against perceived enemies of Islam.
Internal Link: For a more detailed analysis of religious conflicts, explore our blog on The Crusades and Modern Religious Wars: A Historical Comparison.
Ideological Wars: The Clash of Political Systems
Key Keywords: ideological conflicts, democracy vs. communism, fascism, political ideologies
Ideological wars are conflicts driven by opposing worldviews or political systems. These wars often occur when nations or groups believe that their way of life—whether it be political, social, or economic—is superior to others, leading to an effort to spread that ideology or suppress opposing systems. Ideological wars are particularly intense because they involve not just territory or resources but the future direction of entire societies.
The Cold War (1947–1991) between the United States and the Soviet Union is one of the most prominent examples of an ideological conflict. The Cold War was not just a military struggle but a clash of ideologies: capitalism and democracy on one side, and communism and authoritarianism on the other. Although the two superpowers avoided direct military conflict, the Cold War resulted in numerous proxy wars, including the Korean War and the Vietnam War, where ideological battles played out on foreign soil. The ideological struggle shaped global politics for decades, influencing alliances, economic systems, and national policies worldwide.
Another example of an ideological conflict is the rise of fascism during the 20th century, which led to World War II. Fascist regimes in Germany, Italy, and Japan sought to expand their authoritarian and nationalist ideologies, resulting in some of the deadliest conflicts in human history. The war against fascism was not only about territorial conquest but also about the survival of democratic and free-market ideals.
In the modern era, ideological conflicts continue, particularly between authoritarian regimes and democratic states, as seen in tensions between the United States and countries like China and Russia, where differing political ideologies drive much of the geopolitical rivalry.
Internal Link: Read more about the role of ideology in global conflicts in our piece on The Cold War and the Ideological Struggle for Global Dominance.
Social Inequality and Class Struggles Leading to War
Key Keywords: social inequality, class warfare, revolution, social uprisings
Wars and conflicts often arise from social inequality and the struggle between different social classes. When a society is divided by wealth, privilege, and access to resources, tensions can build until they erupt into conflict. Throughout history, class struggles have led to wars and revolutions as oppressed groups rise up against ruling elites.
The French Revolution (1789–1799) is one of the most iconic examples of a conflict driven by social inequality. The revolution was fueled by widespread dissatisfaction among the French population, particularly the working class, who were burdened by taxes and denied political power while the aristocracy lived in luxury. This inequality ultimately led to the overthrow of the monarchy and a violent revolution that reshaped France and influenced revolutionary movements around the world.
Similarly, the Russian Revolution of 1917 was driven by the deep class divisions in Russian society. The peasants and working class, oppressed by the Tsarist regime and impoverished by war and famine, rose up in revolution, leading to the establishment of the Soviet Union. This revolution was not only a national event but also a major ideological shift, as it replaced a monarchy with a communist state, leading to decades of global ideological conflict.
In more recent history, social inequality has contributed to conflicts in regions like Latin America, where economic disparity and political corruption have fueled civil wars and revolutions in countries like Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Colombia. These conflicts, driven by the desire for social justice and redistribution of wealth, continue to shape the politics and societies of these nations.
Internal Link: For more insights into how social inequality leads to conflict, check out our article on Revolutions and Class Warfare in History.
Conclusion
While some argue that wars are necessary to preserve freedom or achieve justice, others contend that peaceful alternatives should always be explored. The Just War Theory, a doctrine of military ethics, tries to reconcile the need for conflict with moral principles. However, the question remains: can humanity ever truly escape the cycle of violence, or is war an inevitable part of human nature?
Internal Link: For exploring the diplomatic efforts to prevent and to end wars, check out our article on The Role of Diplomacy in Preventing or Ending Wars
while war has historically played a role in shaping nations and resolving conflicts, it comes at a significant cost. Whether or not wars are necessary depends largely on one’s perspective—political, economic, or ethical. What do you think? Is war an unfortunate but necessary reality in our world? Share your thoughts in the comments below. By sharing your thoughts, you’ll be getting a chance to be part of like minded community and will be subject to invitations by forum to join different debate rooms and webinars.
Riff
October 13, 2024 at 2:14 amI think Pacifist approach has lost its weight and other factor are overly overwhelming for the nations to resort to war. Btw, that’s one good analysis. To my thinking, I believe the most important factor why nations resort to war is when their interests outweight the casualities anticipated in that arena.
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