War

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War deaths caused by warfare

Ramesseum siege of Dapur

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The War in Finland, 1940 HU55566

War is a state of armed conflict between states, governments, societies, or paramilitary groups such as mercenaries, insurgents, and militias. It is generally characterized by extreme violence, aggression, destruction, and mortality, using regular or irregular military forces. Warfare refers to the common activities and characteristics of types of war, or of wars in general.

Etymology

The word "war" comes from the Old High German language; the word werran (to confuse or to cause confusion) through the High German verwirren, to perplex. The English word is related to the Old Norse varr, meaning "to defend, to guard, to protect."

History

War has been a part of human history since its inception. It has been used as a way to settle disputes, expand territories, and assert power. The history of war is vast and includes a wide range of conflicts, from ancient and medieval wars to modern conflicts. The nature of warfare has evolved over time, from the hand-to-hand combat of ancient times to the highly technological battles of the 21st century.

Types of Warfare

Warfare can be classified into several categories, including:

• Conventional warfare, which is characterized by the use of conventional military forces and tactics.
• Unconventional warfare, which includes guerrilla warfare, insurgency, and other tactics that do not fit the norms of conventional warfare.
• Nuclear warfare, involving the use of nuclear weapons.
• Chemical warfare and biological warfare, involving the use of chemical or biological agents as weapons.
• Cyber warfare, involving the use of computer and information technology to conduct sabotage and espionage.
• Economic warfare, involving the use of economic measures to weaken the enemy.

Causes of War

The causes of war are complex and varied and can include:

• Territorial disputes
• Resource scarcity
• Religious conflicts
• Nationalism
• Revenge for past conflicts
• Political ideology

Effects of War

The effects of war can be devastating and long-lasting, affecting both combatants and civilians. They can include:

• Loss of life and injury
• Economic destruction
• Displacement of populations
• Environmental damage
• Psychological trauma

Laws of War

The laws of war are a set of international laws designed to protect the rights of combatants and non-combatants during armed conflicts. These laws include the Geneva Conventions and the Hague Conventions, which outline the legal standards for humanitarian treatment in war.

See also

• Peace
• Military history
• Armed forces
• Weapons of mass destruction