| |
Power and Gunpowder
Summary
|
War and politics are virtually inseparable. When technological inventions change the nature of war, politics and diplomacy alter as well. This was especially true of early modern Europe, when the introduction of guns increased the effectiveness of infantry and the cost of armed conflict. The relationship between firearms and money created situations that encouraged the consolidation of leaders' powers. To fight even a defensive war, a leader needed money to arm his soldiers. This demanded expanding his tax base or taking money from some other ruler. Under these circumstances, offensive wars, undertaken in the name of either religion or the simple extension of power, looked more and more attractive. And because offensive wars demanded money, the cycle could begin again.
|
