What is the difference between limited war and total war
Limited war and total war are two different concepts in the field of warfare that denote the extent and objectives of military engagement.
1. Limited War:
Limited war refers to a conflict in which the involved parties aim to achieve specific objectives without directly targeting the complete destruction of an enemy. In limited warfare, there is usually a defined objective, a specific area of conflict, and certain restrictions on the methods and magnitude of military force employed. Examples of limited wars include specific military operations, conflicts with defined goals (such as territorial disputes), or proxy wars fought by supporting indigenous forces. Limited wars are generally fought with the intention of exerting pressure or achieving specific political, economic, or territorial outcomes, rather than complete annihilation.
2. Total War:
Total war, on the other hand, is a concept that encompasses warfare conducted without any specific limitations or restraints on the methods or objectives. In a total war scenario, the entire resources of a nation are dedicated to achieving victory, which often includes targeting civilian populations, infrastructure, and industries to weaken the enemy's ability to fight. Examples of total wars include World War II and the Napoleonic Wars. In total war, the distinction between military and civilian targets can become blurred, as the objective is the complete defeat or destruction of the enemy, rather than limited political or territorial gains.
In summary, the key differences between limited war and total war lie in the objectives, scope, and methods employed. Limited wars have specific goals, involve restricted military actions, and do not seek to annihilate the enemy, whereas total wars have no inherent limitations, and the objective is the complete destruction or defeat of the enemy.