The two World Wars of the 20th century are usually regarded as the most total of history's wars. Elements of total war include mobilisation, extermination of the enemy, blurring of roles between soldiers and civilians, total control of society, use of various weaponries, and the targeting of civilians.
Although its concept was first introduced in the 19th and 20th centuries, it had been observed in early conflicts. Total war calls for the complete involvement of governments, economies and populations of participating nations.
