Cause Of War Essay

Throughout the early modern era there were varied causes for the wars, some more significant than others. Three of the main causes for the wars at this time were power and territory, material wealth, and nationalism. Power and territory influenced the rulers of each country that were trying to expand their nation and power, by gaining more territory. Material wealth was fought over, to expand the resources of the country and to have more personal gain. Nationalism was the third cause of warring in this time period because each nation was fighting for their nation, they each wanted to prove their power and take over others land to expand. The three main causes of war in the early modern era all had connection to each other, some proving to be …show more content…
Nationalism is a strong loyalty and devotion to a nation, it is the belief that the greatest benefit will come from a country acting independently in their own interest. Nationalism was a major factor in controversy within this time period because each nation would fight each other to become more powerful and to expand their power. Each country would fight for their nation to become stronger whether it was to spread their religion, gain more territory, or have more power. Citizens of every country would fight for their nation and be proud to do so. For example, the Thirty Years’ War had a major draw with nationalism, each nation was fighting for the nation’s freedom and power. The conclusion of the Thirty Year’s War ended with France becoming the strongest nation and having a large advance in power over other nations. Nationalism shows a greater risk for causing was rather than dynastic rivalry because while people were wanting to fight for their nation, two royal people would be fighting over the throne. The dynastic rivals would spend an overwhelming amount of time fighting over the crown but there was always a winner and a loser, while the citizens would fight to overcome and bring power to their nation. Nationalism was a fierce component in the wars of this time period and can be used in the modern day world as a cause of war, as a never ending rivalry between