War Crimes, Genocide, and Justice ― A Global History

In this sweeping, definitive work, leading human rights scholar David Crowe offers an unflinching account of the long and troubled history of genocide and war crimes. From atrocities in ancient Europe and Asia to more recent horrors in Nazi Germany, Cambodia, and Rwanda, Crowe reveals not only the disturbing consistency they have shown over time, but also the often heroic efforts that nations and individuals have made to break seemingly intractable patterns of violence and retribution. While facing head-on the brutal realities of human history, this book nonetheless finds some cause for hope in the international institutions that have evolved over the last several centuries, and provides critically important insights into the ongoing abuses in Darfur, Guantanamo Bay, Chechnya, and elsewhere.

David M. Crowe is a Professor of History and Law at Elon University, USA. He has been a Visiting Scholar at the Harriman Institute at Columbia University and has taught at Central European University in Budapest. His most recent books include Oskar Schindler: The Untold Account of His Life, Wartime Activities, and the True Story behind the List (2004; History Book Club selection), A History of the Gypsies of Eastern Europe and Russia, Second Edition (2007; History Book Club selection), and The Holocaust: Roots, History, and Aftermath (2008). His work has been featured in articles in the New York Times, Jerusalem Post, Evening Standard, Washington Post, and other publications.