“The most important causes of wars in the period 750–1500 were political.” With reference to two wars, to what extent do you agree with this statement?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that the most important causes of wars in this period were political. The two wars may or may not be from the same region. Causes may predate the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may offer equal coverage of both wars or they may prioritize their assessment of one of them. However, both wars will be a feature of the response. When discussing political causes candidates may refer to succession and/or dynastic disputes, for example Ariq Boke’s challenge to Kublai Khan; or the role of an empire’s decline in encouraging its neighbour’s expansionist ambitions, for example, the Seljuk Turks’ excursions into the Byzantine Empire during the 11th century. Other relevant factors such as economic or religious factors may be addressed, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates may note that wars are often caused by a combination of these factors, as in the case of the First Crusade. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that the most important causes of wars in this period were political. A few responses were seen but, unfortunately, the examples chosen were twentieth century wars even though the topic heading clearly indicated 750-1500 to be the timeframe.