WWII in Europe didn't end because of the Allied Force's success, it ended because of Germany's willingness to accept surrender. Japan during WWII, had nothing to do with the bombs - they just decided to surrender, also. Gulf War 1 ended because the Iraqis came to the table and accepted the terms (whether they were enough is another debate) of the Allied Forces.

You do realize that it was do an overwhelming show of strength that caused these events to occur, don't you? Or was it a change of heart on their part or the fact that we said please? They accepted our terms over their demise. Ever notice how these factions change sides on a whim, it is due to thier immediate survival requirements and they go with the strongest side. Sometimes you have to show who the strongest side is.

Try to go beyond the bullet statements that you see on TV.