Herbicidal warfare

Herbicidal warfare is a method of war that uses herbicides to destroy the agricultural resources of an enemy. It has been used by various military forces throughout history, including the United States during the Vietnam War.

History

The use of herbicides in warfare dates back to ancient times. The Roman Empire is known to have used salt to sterilize the soil of its enemies, a primitive form of herbicidal warfare. In more recent times, the British used herbicides during the Malayan Emergency in the 1950s to destroy the food crops of communist insurgents.

During the Vietnam War, the United States used a variety of herbicides, most notably Agent Orange, to defoliate the dense jungles of Vietnam in an effort to expose enemy forces. This use of herbicides is considered one of the most controversial aspects of the Vietnam War, with many veterans and Vietnamese civilians suffering from health problems believed to be caused by exposure to these chemicals.

Effects

The effects of herbicidal warfare can be devastating. In addition to destroying crops and vegetation, the chemicals used can have serious health effects on those exposed to them. These can include cancer, birth defects, and other serious illnesses. The environmental impact can also be severe, with long-term damage to soil and water resources.

International law

The use of herbicides in warfare is considered a violation of international law. The Geneva Convention prohibits the use of methods of warfare which are intended to cause widespread, long-term, and severe damage to the natural environment. In addition, the Chemical Weapons Convention prohibits the use of any chemical in warfare, including herbicides.

See also

• Chemical warfare
• Biological warfare
• Environmental warfare

References

Herbicidal warfare Resources
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