What is a war of attrition? In-depth analysis
Posted on Oct 23, 2024 / History
A war of attrition is a strategy in which the fighting parties try to wear down the enemy to the point that he is unable to continue the war due to lack of resources, rather than through quick decisive victories on the battlefield.
This kind of war is extremely dangerous and brutal, as it requires maximum mobilization of all resources over a long span of time, and it often leads to huge human and economic losses.What do they do? Aim to weaken the enemy!
The war of attrition is not aimed at achieving specific territorial gains, but at gradually weakening the enemy. Losses in manpower and equipment, as well as low morale may be more significant than gains in ground. A war of attrition may take several months to several years. The parties may avoid direct decisive battles, preferring small operations or protracted battles that wear down the enemy.Victory in such a war depends on the ability to keep a stable economy and supplies for a long time. Attrition strategy involves using all available resources: human, economic, material. An enemy that is unable to effectively replace losses is going to be defeated.
Each war of attrition is accompanied by demoralization of the enemy troops and population, which can play a key role in capitulation. Massive losses and war fatigue undermine the people's will to resist.
World War I (1914–1918) is a classic example of attrition war, when armies were stuck in the trenches. Breakthroughs along the front were insignificant, and each side sought to weaken the enemy. Attrition warfare played a huge role in exhausting the resources of European countries and led to economic crises.
Please share the link with friends and neighbors:
Also! Recommended for you:
Why is New York City called the Big Apple?Maybe the best book of our time is...
When did humans start using fire?
History of Ukraine, the country that made history in 2022
List of Famous Historical Empires: from Rome to Beijing
Who invented the wheel? When and where the wheel was invented?
© 2025 City maps and famous places