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Total War

Definition

Total war is a military strategy where all resources, including civilians, are mobilized for war effort and civilian areas may be attacked as well.

Analogy

Consider total war like playing an intense game of chess where every single piece on board has an active role in winning or losing - even pawns can make or break your game!

Related terms

Sherman's March to Sea: A famous example of total war during American Civil War led by Union General William T. Sherman who marched across Georgia causing widespread destruction.

Scorched Earth Policy: A military strategy similar to total war where everything useful for enemy is destroyed. It’s like eating all the cookies so your sibling can't have any.

Draft Riots: Violent disturbances in response to compulsory enlistment for war. Imagine a school making an unpopular rule mandatory and students protesting against it.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.