Xi Warned of the ‘Thucydides Trap.’ What Is It?

1. 1. Chinese President Xi Jinping warned the United States and China to beware the “Thucydides Trap” in their relations, especially concerning Taiwan.
2. 2. The "Thucydides Trap" describes the high likelihood of conflict when a rising power challenges an established one, drawing from ancient Greek history.
3. 3. According to Professor Allison's research, 12 out of 16 historical instances where a rising power challenged a ruling one resulted in conflict.
4. 4. Xi Jinping has consistently presented the "Thucydides Trap" as a cautionary tale that can and should be avoided, rather than an inevitable outcome.
5. 5. Beijing uses the concept of the “Thucydides Trap” as part of a broader diplomatic effort to cast China as a "responsible great power."