What is a limited war?
Q: What is a limited war?
A: A limited war is a type of warfare where one state uses less than its total resources and has a goal of less than total defeat of the enemy.
Q: Why might limited war be more practical than total war?
A: Limited war may be more practical than total war because it can often be much more cost effective, and in some cases, the fate of the state does not depend on the outcome of the war.
Q: When did limited wars become normal?
A: Following World War II, when nuclear weapons were introduced, limited wars became normal.
Q: What are some examples of limited wars since 1945?
A: Examples include the Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War and Iraq War.
Q: What is usually the goal for at least one party in a limited war?
A: The goal for at least one party in a limited war is to maintain its freedom and preserve itself.
Q: How do weaker parties use strategy against stronger enemies in these types of conflicts? A: Weaker parties may use strategies such as drawing out fighting until their opponents get tired and decide to quit. This was seen during George Washington's American Revolutionary War against Britain. Today Islamist groups also employ this tactic by trying to wear down their Western world enemies.
