Understanding Proxy Wars
Definition
A proxy war is a conflict instigated and supported by external powers that do not directly engage in combat but provide assistance to one or more of the parties involved.
Causes
- Strategic interests in a region
- Ideological differences between major powers
- Desire to gain influence or control over a particular area
- Support for allied or friendly governments or factions
Examples of Proxy Wars
- The Cold War: The conflicts in Korea and Vietnam were classic examples of proxy wars between the United States and the Soviet Union.
- Syria: The Syrian Civil War has involved various regional and international powers supporting different factions, turning it into a proxy war.
- Yemen: The conflict in Yemen has seen the involvement of Saudi Arabia and Iran supporting opposing sides, making it a proxy war.
Impact
Proxy wars can have devastating effects on the countries and regions where they occur, leading to widespread destruction, loss of life, and displacement of civilians. They also contribute to regional instability and can have global implications, especially when major powers are involved.
Key Players
- Major powers such as the United States, Russia, China, and regional powers like Iran and Saudi Arabia often play significant roles in supporting proxy war conflicts.
- Local factions and governments involved in the conflict are also key players, as they receive support and assistance from external powers.
Resolution
Resolving proxy wars often requires a combination of diplomatic efforts, negotiations, and addressing the root causes of the conflict. International cooperation and dialogue between the major powers involved are essential for finding peaceful solutions.
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Ancient Greece 
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Ancient Greece
Worksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)
TIME, CONTINUITY, AND CHANGE
SOCIAL STUDIES PROGRAMS SHOULD INCLUDE EXPERIENCES THAT PROVIDE FOR THE STUDY OF THE PAST AND ITS LEGACY.
KNOWLEDGE - Learners will understand:
Key historical periods and patterns of change within and across cultures (e.g., the rise and fall of ancient civilizations, the development of technology, the rise of modern nation-states, and the establishment and breakdown of colonial systems).
National Center for History in Schools (NCHS)
Historical Thinking Standards
Historical Comprehension
Reconstruct the literal meaning of a historical passage.
World History Content Standards
Era 3: Classical Traditions, Major Religions, and Giant Empires, 1000 BCE-300 CE
The emergence of Aegean civilization and how interrelations developed among peoples of the eastern Mediterranean and Southwest Asia, 600-200 BCE.
The student understands the achievements and limitations of the democratic institutions that developed in Athens and other Aegean city-states.
The student understands the major cultural achievements of Greek civilization.
The student understands Alexander of Macedon’s conquests and the interregional character of Hellenistic society and culture.
Major global trends from 1000 BCE-300 CE.
The student understands major global trends from 1000 BCE to 300 CE.