Religious wars are conflicts primarily driven by differences in beliefs and practices among various religions. These wars often arise when one group seeks to impose its faith on another or when religious tensions escalate into violence. Historical examples include the Crusades, where Christians fought Muslims for control of holy sites, and the Thirty Years' War, which involved various European powers divided along Catholic and Protestant lines. These conflicts can lead to significant social and political changes, as well as loss of life and cultural heritage. While some religious wars are fought for spiritual reasons, they often intertwine with issues of power, territory, and resources, complicating the motivations behind the violence.