TOTAL WAR Meaning and
Definition
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Total war refers to a military strategy and concept that emerged during the 20th century, particularly in relation to the two World Wars. It is an all-encompassing approach to warfare that aims to utilize all available resources towards achieving victory. In a total war scenario, the entire nation mobilizes for battle, with both military forces and civilian populations contributing to the war effort.
Total war involves a wholesale commitment of a nation's economic, industrial, and social resources, with the goal of defeating the enemy by any means necessary. It goes beyond limited objectives or localized conflicts and seeks to destroy the enemy's ability to wage war effectively. This includes conducting intense military operations on land, sea, and air, targeting not only enemy forces but also their infrastructure, industry, and civilian population centers.
In total war, there are often no restrictions on the use of weapons or tactics, leading to widespread destruction, casualties, and suffering. Propaganda and psychological warfare play crucial roles in shaping public opinion and mobilizing support for the war effort. Total war necessitates strict government control, a command economy, and the suppression of individual freedoms in order to achieve unity of purpose and expedite victory.
Overall, total war represents the complete immersion of a nation in the pursuit of victory, wherein all available resources, military capabilities, and societal efforts are mobilized to overcome the enemy and secure the nation's interests at any cost.
Etymology of TOTAL WAR
The term "total war" has its origins in the early 20th century. The German word "Gesamtkrieg" or "totaler Krieg" was first used by German military theorists and strategists during World War I. It was popularized by General Erich Ludendorff in his memoirs, where he wrote about the concept of mobilizing all available resources, not just military, but also economic, industrial, and psychological, to achieve victory in a conflict.
The term gained further prominence during World War II, particularly with the writings of German military strategist, General Friedrich von Bernhardi, and later by German military historian, Major General Ernst Jünger. They both emphasized the idea of a "total war" where the entire population and industry of a nation would be comprehensively mobilized to support military objectives.
