5. The War of Jenkins’ Ear (Britain vs. Spain, 1739-1748)
Few wars have such a peculiar origin story. In 1731, Spanish coast guards allegedly cut off British Captain Robert Jenkins’ ear. Years later, the incident was used as a rallying cry for war, with Jenkins himself presenting his preserved ear to Parliament. What started as a personal injury soon escalated into a sprawling conflict across the Caribbean and North America. Discover more at National Geographic.
