Modern world wars include a variety of conflicts that have changed the global political and social map. From World Wars I and II, to more recent conflicts such as the Cold War and warfare in the Middle East, the evolution of these conflicts offers an in-depth look at how and why war continues to change the world. World War I (1914-1918) sparked major changes in the way countries fought and interacted. The use of modern weapons such as automatic rifles, heavy artillery and poison gas changed the battle landscape. Battles in places such as Verdun and the Somme saw explosions in casualties and destruction. As a result, the League of Nations emerged, which aimed to prevent similar conflicts in the future. Subsequently, World War II (1939-1945) introduced greater levels of destruction with the use of fighter planes, tanks, and atomic bombs. This war not only involved major countries, but also affected the entire civilian population. Genocide, like the Holocaust, shows how war can be used as a tool for racial discrimination and extreme ideology. After this war, the UN was founded as an effort to reduce international tensions. The Cold War (1947-1991) marked a shift from traditional conflicts to more psychological and ideological ones. The clash between the Western bloc led by the US and the Eastern bloc led by the Soviet Union created new global tensions. In this context, various proxy wars, such as the Vietnam and Afghanistan Wars, occurred, indicating that conflicts were no longer just conventional in nature, but also involved a struggle for global influence. Entering the 21st century, the emergence of international terrorism has added to the complexity of modern warfare. The September 11, 2001 attacks on the US changed the way countries deal with threats. Locations such as Iraq and Afghanistan are at the center of the fight against extremism. This conflict features new elements, such as cyber warfare, which have now become an important element of military strategy. In this context, the conflicts in Syria and Yemen show examples of humanity in modern war. The involvement of many states as well as non-state armed groups adds a new dimension, making conflict resolution even more difficult. Social media has also played a role in documenting and sharing the impact of war with the world, raising global awareness. Modern world wars show that although technology and ways of waging war continue to evolve, the long-term impacts on society and politics are always relevant. Understanding these dynamics is important for formulating foreign policies and security strategies that can reduce the likelihood of future conflict. By heeding the lessons of history, the world may be able to find solutions to create a more sustainable peace.
