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Abstract The buffer states and the buffered states (one weak between two strong powers) constitute a special regional security structure. The buffer states are regarded as the peace zone to maintain the peace between great powers and they are also seen as the arena of aggravating great power conflicts. This situation always triggers disagreements and debates about their geopolitical roles in academic circles. This study selects three buffer states in the transformation of the international system (from the Vienna System to the Yalta System, 1871-1845): Afghanistan (Anglo-Russian game, 1873-1917), Siam (Anglo-French game, 1896-1918) and Poland (Soviet-German game, 1918-1945), exploring the dynamic changes of the geopolitical roles of the buffer states in different stages and regions. This study finds that the buffer states have dual geopolitical roles of maintaining peace between great powers and exacerbating their conflicts, while their geopolitical roles vary with the change of their geopolitical identities among peace zones, arenas, spheres of influence, and strategic depth. The buffer state has been seen as a historical concept of reflecting a certain historical burden, while its inherent buffer thinking has positive values in managing conflicts between great powers. This study draws on historical experience for China to strive to shape a strategic buffer in the space-time dimension, and provides certain reference.
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