With reference to two wars, to what extent do you agree that competition for resources was the main factor contributing to the outbreak of conflict?

Candidates will consider the merits or otherwise of the argument that competition for resources was the main factor that contributed to the outbreak of two wars. While the focus of the response must be within the timeframe of this topic, the two wars need not have occurred at the same time and, if one or both of the wars take place at the beginning of the period, then some material immediately prior to 750 is permissible. The two wars may or may not be chosen from different regions. Candidates must address the competition for resources, which may include fertile land, water, labour and/or mineral wealth, and consider the relative importance of this as a main factor. Candidates will also consider other factors that may or may not have been of greater or lesser importance. Each war may be considered separately or a thematic approach may be used where candidates wish to compare the relative importance of relevant factors for each war chosen.