Abstract

In the wake of history’s most profound atrocity, the Allied powers undertook a pivotal initiative to illuminate the horrific crimes commit-ted by Nazi Germany during the Holocaust, ensuring that both the international community and the German populace confront the chilling reality of their past. Although the various powers advocated for different ideas of retribution, the consensus was that those responsible for this atrocity should be brought to justice. This motivation influenced the International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg (“Tribunal”). This Tribunal, which culminated in the death sentences of twelve defend-ants, marked a watershed moment in international law and had a substantial impact on the principles of justice and accountability for mass atrocities. Never before had international law been utilized to criminally prosecute state officials for conduct that was legal in their country at the time. However, with novelty comes skepticism. Many legal commentators and scholars have criticized the legal foundations of the Tribunal’s authority and argue the adjudications were purely “victor’s justice.” This article examines the historical context, legal authority, and jurisdictional questions of the Tribunal, its lasting impact, and its potential further influence. This analysis aims to provide a clearer understanding of how we should perceive this pivotal moment in law and history.

Keywords: Nuremberg, trials, crimes, nazi, Germany, holocaust, tribunal, international, military, criminal, prosecute, victor's justice, International law