There are at least a dozen similar threads on this question. Try a google search as the houzz search engine is not very good. The answer is, yes, you do.

The main reason for a backsplash is to protect the drywall from water, grease and other particulates . The other reason is cosmetic, which is entirely up to you for the look you're trying to accomplish.

Well, drywall, cabinets, floors, and subfloors.... Water can delaminate plywood, destroy mdf, and cause mold. A one or two inch bs is fine in most circumstances.

For decades, people had 4" backsplashes except behind the stove, where it was larger. Many people, wallpapered above the backsplash. This is a very dated look today! A nice backsplash pulls everything together and gives a seamless look in a room (the kitchen) which tends to be choppy.

You're right friedajune...especially since it was a first time poster. But I like to think our answers help others, not just the OP.

I would say a GW consensus is "yes", but a realistic answer is, "sometimes, no", especially if you have the sink on an island and the range is a standard range with a backguard.

I have a minimal backsplash except behind the sink. I wanted a simpler look. But I wanted to protect the wall.