“The main cause of Early Modern wars was the competition for resources.” Discuss with reference to two wars.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the main cause of Early Modern wars was the competition for resources. Candidates may discuss competition for resources in reference to land for agricultural purposes or in reference to trade, trade routes, ports, key trading cities. The Moroccan invasion of the Songhai Empire, the Beaver Wars and the Portuguese–Mamluk Naval War are all viable examples of such conflicts. Candidates may also discuss competition in relation to natural or human resources. The European conquest of the New World may be discussed and provides numerous examples of conflicts driven by competition for natural, human and land resources. Similarly, the conflicts resulting from Ottoman expansion under the reign of Selim I and Suleiman may be popular examples. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example, candidates may discuss the importance of ideological, political, religious or territorial causes of Early Modern wars. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required candidates to offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the main cause of Early Modern wars was the competition for resources. Very few responses were seen.