Letters of Marque are a rare special permission granted by a government to individuals to seize and plunder ships or people from another country who have committed wrongdoing. This authorization is now seldom granted.
Letters of marque are a government-issued licence that authorizes private citizens to retaliate against citizens or ships of another country. This licence is granted in cases where a ship from one country attacks a ship from another country, allowing the government of the attacked country to issue letters of marque to its citizens. With these letters, the citizens are empowered to seek revenge by attacking ships from the attacking country. It is worth noting that letters of marque are no longer in common use today. The authority to grant them is solely held by Congress, although they have not been granted since the 19th century.
A Letter of Marque is a government-issued license that authorizes a private ship owner to attack and capture enemy vessels during times of war.
No, Letters of Marque are no longer used in modern times. They were last issued by the United States during the War of 1812.
Only a government can issue a Letter of Marque.
The purpose of a Letter of Marque is to allow private individuals to engage in acts of war against enemy vessels, thereby supplementing the government’s naval forces.
A Letter of Marque grants the holder the legal authority to engage in acts of war against enemy vessels, but it also subjects the holder to the laws of war and the risk of retaliation by the enemy.
Yes, a government can revoke a Letter of Marque at any time.
If a Letter of Marque holder violates the laws of war, they can be subject to prosecution and punishment under international law.
Yes, a Letter of Marque holder can be held liable for damages caused during an attack, and may be required to pay compensation to the injured party.
Yes, a government may impose restrictions on who can hold a Letter of Marque, such as requiring the holder to be a citizen of the issuing country.
Letters of Marque played a significant role in naval warfare during the Age of Sail, and were used by many countries to supplement their naval forces and disrupt enemy shipping.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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