This will be my least-read blog post. In George R. R. Martin’s Fire and Blood, a history of the Targaryen dynasty, one little line always stuck out… Read more “GRRM’s Worst World-Building Mistake”
Tag: demographics
Demographics and the Laws of War
Today we’re going to discuss the intersection of two of my favorite topics: human demographics and the laws of war. At first, you might think the two… Read more “Demographics and the Laws of War”
Mini Take: Demographics and the Life Cycle of Wartime Politics
Several months ago, I discussed how wars leave a demographic shadow even decades after the end of the fighting. Today, I’m going to expand on that idea… Read more “Mini Take: Demographics and the Life Cycle of Wartime Politics”
Ukraine and the Demographics of Siege Warfare
Like many Americans, I’ve been horrified by the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine, and inspired by the brave resistance of the Ukrainians. The attack also reveals much… Read more “Ukraine and the Demographics of Siege Warfare”
Mini Take: The Demographic Shadow of the First World War in Germany
War can have a huge effect on a nation’s demographics, but not always in the way you would expect. The First World War (1914-1918) was the world’s… Read more “Mini Take: The Demographic Shadow of the First World War in Germany”
To the Last Man: Demography and the Roman Army’s Darkest Hour
A little while ago, I wrote about how the Second Punic War lasted so long that many of the men in Hannibal’s army would have had more… Read more “To the Last Man: Demography and the Roman Army’s Darkest Hour”
Old Soldiers Never Die? A Demographic Analysis of History’s Most Elderly Army
In modern times, we think of military service as a temporary thing, a term of service lasting a few years before soldiers return to civilian life. Even… Read more “Old Soldiers Never Die? A Demographic Analysis of History’s Most Elderly Army”
Tragedy and Farce 