In the early middle ages, civilizations in different regions began to expand. what are some of the reasons a civilization may seek to expand its power and influence? do you think expansion always leads to conflict? why or why not?

As the population of a civilization grows, it struggles to provide resources for the population. One of the easiest solution to this is to expand their territory in order to amass more money and power by taking the resources of others instead of producing their own. 
Some expansions of territory lead to conflict but not always, there are countless ways to forge peace and harmony by sharing learning and the promise of stability by strong leaders.