strategy of exhaustion

The strategy of exhaustion, also known as attrition, is a warfare tactic where one side aims to win by wearing down the opponent's resources and will to fight. This often involves prolonged conflicts, hoping that the enemy will eventually collapse due to mounting losses and depleted strength.1

During World War I, this strategy became prominent due to technological advancements that led to immense casualties and battlefield deadlock. While some attempted maneuvers, the war largely became a contest of endurance. Peace was ultimately achieved through exhaustion and collapse rather than a precise matching of means to ends.1

In medieval warfare, both overthrow and exhaustion strategies were employed. The Crusader states, for example, were gradually worn down by constant raiding, while decisive battles could also doom entire kingdoms.2