, LCP4801 Assignment 2 Semester 1 2026 - DUE 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Describe the development of international law and the
contribution of pre-colonial African entities to such development. (15)
1. Introduction
International law did not emerge suddenly in Europe but developed
gradually through the practices of different civilizations regulating
relations between political communities. While European scholarship
often dominates narratives on the origins of international law, pre-
colonial African entities made significant contributions through
diplomatic practices, trade regulations, conflict resolution mechanisms,
and customary legal systems. These practices demonstrate that African
societies actively participated in shaping norms that resemble modern
principles of international law.
2. Development of International Law
The development of international law can be traced through several
historical phases:
1. Ancient and Classical Periods
Early forms of international law existed in ancient civilizations
such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Treaties
regulating peace, war, alliances, and trade were common. Roman
concepts such as jus gentium (law of nations) influenced later
European legal thought by recognising rules applicable to all
peoples, not only Roman citizens.
QUESTION 1
1.1 Describe the development of international law and the
contribution of pre-colonial African entities to such development. (15)
1. Introduction
International law did not emerge suddenly in Europe but developed
gradually through the practices of different civilizations regulating
relations between political communities. While European scholarship
often dominates narratives on the origins of international law, pre-
colonial African entities made significant contributions through
diplomatic practices, trade regulations, conflict resolution mechanisms,
and customary legal systems. These practices demonstrate that African
societies actively participated in shaping norms that resemble modern
principles of international law.
2. Development of International Law
The development of international law can be traced through several
historical phases:
1. Ancient and Classical Periods
Early forms of international law existed in ancient civilizations
such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Treaties
regulating peace, war, alliances, and trade were common. Roman
concepts such as jus gentium (law of nations) influenced later
European legal thought by recognising rules applicable to all
peoples, not only Roman citizens.
