CONFLICTS THAT SHAPED HISTORY
From ancient rivalries between kingdoms to conflicts that reshaped the modern world, explore the wars that changed civilizations, borders and societies.
THE HISTORY OF CONFLICT
Throughout history, kingdoms, empires and nations have fought over territory, power, resources, political influence and competing ambitions. Some conflicts lasted for generations, while others transformed the world within only a few years.
CHRONICLES OF CONFLICT
431–404 BCE
A prolonged conflict between Athens and Sparta and their respective allies that changed the balance of power in ancient Greece.
Main Sides: Athens and allies vs Sparta and allies
Cause: Rivalry for political and military influence in Greece.
Outcome: Spartan victory and the weakening of Athens.
264–146 BCE
Three major wars between Rome and Carthage for dominance over the western Mediterranean.
Main Sides: Roman Republic vs Carthage
Notable Figures: Hannibal Barca and Scipio Africanus
Outcome: Rome became the dominant power in the Mediterranean.
1337–1453
A series of conflicts between England and France involving disputes over territory and the French succession.
Main Sides: England vs France
Notable Figure: Joan of Arc
Outcome: France regained most English-held territories in France.
1803–1815
A series of conflicts involving Napoleonic France and shifting European coalitions.
Main Sides: France vs European coalitions
Notable Figure: Napoleon Bonaparte
Outcome: Napoleon was defeated and the European balance of power was reorganized.
1914–1918
A global conflict centered largely in Europe that involved two major alliance systems and eventually drew in countries from around the world.
Main Sides: Allied Powers vs Central Powers
Trigger: Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.
Outcome: Central Powers were defeated and major political changes followed.
1939–1945
The largest global conflict of the twentieth century, fought across Europe, Africa, Asia and the Pacific.
Main Sides: Allies vs Axis Powers
Notable Figures: Churchill, Roosevelt, Stalin and others.
Outcome: Axis Powers were defeated and the post-war international order was transformed.
A CHRONICLE OF CONFLICT
Athens and Sparta struggle for dominance in ancient Greece.
Rome and Carthage begin their struggle for Mediterranean power.
England and France enter a long struggle over territory and succession.
Napoleon's France faces successive European coalitions.
A European crisis develops into a global conflict.
A new global war begins in Europe before spreading across the world.
A MEDIEVAL SERIES OF CONFLICTS
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