Reply #17: Historically, Its Tied to Napolean's Invasion of Russia

[DrFunkenstein]

But used more generally, as well. The Russians supposedly burned down Moscow and other cities to deprive the French armies of food supplies. Although Napolean was ultimately turned back, Russia took blood-chilling losses and left the countryside devastated.

And then McCain stepped in and conquered all, futhering the Bush Doctrine for the rest of his days.