Covering 1816-2016, this book deals extensively with the international system as well as the territorial outcomes of several key wars that were waged during that time period, providing an instructive lesson in diplomatic history and international relations among global powers. * Presents an innovative theory of war that covers the major superpower conflicts of the past 200 years * Provides the tools necessary to understanding current events and shows how they are relevant to the future of international relations * Emphasizes the competitive aspects and conflicts of international politics * Answers the key question of why certain time periods are more prone to war than others * Explains why certain superpower wars end with territorial expansion whereas others end in the contraction or maintaining of territorial status