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Guerra civil

Written by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโ€ขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025

Definition

Guerra civil refers to a conflict between factions within the same country, often characterized by intense violence and struggle for power or control. This term is often linked to deep-rooted economic issues, as civil wars frequently arise from inequality, resource distribution disputes, and differing ideologies regarding governance and economic policy. The economic consequences of a civil war can be devastating, leading to destruction of infrastructure, loss of human capital, and long-term impacts on development and stability.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Civil wars are often sparked by economic disparities, where marginalized groups fight for control over resources or political representation.
  2. The economic fallout from civil wars can lead to prolonged poverty and underdevelopment, making recovery difficult for affected nations.
  3. A civil war can result in significant foreign intervention, with external powers supporting different factions for their strategic interests.
  4. Rebuilding after a civil war typically requires substantial international aid and can take decades, with lasting effects on the economy and society.
  5. Economic policies implemented during or after a civil war can shape the trajectory of recovery and influence future stability in the nation.

Review Questions

  • How does economic inequality contribute to the outbreak of a civil war?
    • Economic inequality creates a divide among social classes, leading to frustration and resentment among marginalized groups. When these groups feel that they lack representation or access to resources, they may resort to armed conflict to assert their rights. This struggle is often fueled by the desire for a more equitable distribution of wealth and opportunities, ultimately pushing factions to engage in a civil war as a means of achieving political and economic changes.
  • Discuss the impact of civil wars on national economies during and after the conflict.
    • Civil wars have profound negative impacts on national economies. During the conflict, infrastructure is often destroyed, businesses are disrupted, and human capital is lost due to casualties. In the aftermath, countries face challenges in rebuilding and restoring economic stability. The lack of investment, ongoing insecurity, and loss of skilled workers can lead to prolonged economic difficulties that hinder recovery efforts and affect overall development for generations.
  • Evaluate how international involvement can shape the outcome of a civil war and its economic implications.
    • International involvement can significantly influence both the course and outcome of a civil war. External powers may provide military support or financial aid to specific factions based on their interests, which can alter the balance of power within the conflict. The economic implications are complex; while some nations may benefit from foreign aid for reconstruction post-conflict, others may become economically dependent or face exploitation of resources by foreign entities. Additionally, international involvement can sometimes prolong conflicts rather than facilitate resolutions, impacting long-term economic recovery.

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