What do the Lilliputians represent in Gulliver's adventures?

In "Gulliver's Travels," the Lilliputians serve as a satirical representation of the pettiness and triviality of political conflicts. Swift uses their small stature as a metaphor for the absurdity of the disputes between nations, showcasing how the characters engage in petty squabbles over insignificance, such as the correct way to break an egg. This highlights the irrationality and often ridiculous nature of human disputes, particularly in the political arena. Their conflicts serve as a critique of how such trivial issues can escalate into larger conflicts, reflecting real-world political struggles where small differences lead to significant consequences. Through this representation, Swift invites readers to reflect on the nature of power and the shortcomings of political systems.