What Is Martial Law?

By jamie

Article Sources

Medical Expert

More About Us

Usually, countries are governed by a civil government, and by a civil police force. People that are arrested and charged will then be tried by a non-military court. In some instances, however, a government, be it civil or military, might choose to have military authorities impose rule over civilians rather than civil authorities.

When this decision is made, it is known as martial law. When martial law is put in place, it is usually because of an emergency of sorts such as a major disaster or even a perceived military threat. When martial law is imposed, civil liberties no longer have to be adhered to by the authorities. Here are a few examples of when martial law has been enacted.

1. The Black War - Australia 1828

In 1788, the first of the British fleets arrived in Australia and started a new colony. It was used partly as a penal colony, but the British also wanted to take what resources they could. They set about taking what they could from the new country, but the new arrivals were not alone on the island. Australia was already home to an indigenous people: Aborigines. Understandably, the aborigines were not keen on their new guests and tensions were high. In 1828, violence between the British settlers and Aborigines was so prevalent that the then governor declared martial war. Unfortunately for the Aborigines, this gave British soldiers impunity in killing them, and the effect was in place for 3 years.

Related Articles