Abstract

This chapter describes the formative role natural law served in international law and its subsequent decline. It conveys that international law was a European system that was extended to other nations using the claim of universality and explains three functions of ius gentium. A theme running through the chapter is that natural law was utilized to advance European imperial interests. The views of Vitoria, Grotius, and Vattel are conveyed, showing that they justified war against indigenous people, forced trade, and seizing uncultivated lands in the name of natural law.