This is something that has baffled me frequently. So many people seem to feel, OOC, that it's VITALLY IMPORTANT that their realm not be seen as the aggressor, in any war, ever.
The important thing is, as you say, not who starts the war, but who finishes it.
It matters in the political arena. It can help you gain allies to your cause or to dissuade others from joining your enemies if you can paint yourself as the innocent victim and your enemy as the greedy aggressor/bully.
As to why it matters here, in this OOC forum? I have no clue, except to say that sometimes players get caught up in the passions of their characters. I know I do from time to time.
