The Occupation of Enemy Territory: A Commentary on the Law and Practice of Belligerent Occupation

The Occupation of Enemy Territory was first published in 1957. Minnesota Archive Editions uses digital technology to make long-unavailable books once again accessible, and are published unaltered from the original University of Minnesota Press editions.This volume makes available the most comprehensive discussion and analysis of the law and practice of belligerent occupation which has been published since the first World War. Professor von Glahn, a political scientist, synthesizes the generally accepted principles and practices of military occupation, points out weaknesses of the existing body of rules, and examines proposals designed to bring into existence a more effective system of law to govern the administration of occupied enemy territory. Specialists in international law, military and governmental authorities, and political scientists will find this book valuable for both reference and teaching.A brief historical background section traces the development of the law of occupation. The major portion of the book presents a topical analysis of occupation practices during both World Wars. Among the subjects discussed are many which have been neglected in previous works on military occupation, including the status of collective farms, currency and banking controls, price levels, rationing, and guerrilla forces.Separate sections are devoted to the controversy concerning the legal status of Germany from 1945 until the establishment of the Bonn government and to war crimes trials, both national and international. A significant feature is the text and analysis of the provisions of the fourth Geneva Convention of 1949, which was ratified by the United State in 1956 and which will impose many new responsibilities and restrictions on the armed forces of this country in the event of future military occupations. Illustrative materials are provided in appendixes, and there is a bibliography of approximately 700 items.