Law and Colonial Cultures: Legal Regimes in World History, 1400-1900

Studies in Comparative World History

by Lauren A. Benton

This book advances a new perspective in world history, arguing that institutions and culture--and not just the global economy--serve as important elements of international order. Focusing on colonial legal politics and the interrelation of local cultural contests and institutional change, it uses case studies to trace a shift in plural legal orders--from the multicentric law of early empires to the state-centered law of the colonial and postcolonial world. Benton shows how Indigenous subjects across time were active in making, changing, and interpreting the law--and, by extension, in shaping the international order.

Genres: History, World History, Law, Nonfiction, Politics

300 pages, Paperback

First published January 31, 1998

About the author

Lauren Benton is an American historian known for her works on the history of empires, colonial and imperial law, and the history of international law. She is the Barton M. Biggs Professor of History and Professor of Law at Yale University.

Reviews

[Marta · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was maybe too theoretical for me, but I liked how theory was applied to concrete cases that are still relevant today.

[Josh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book. I think the second half is stronger in the ideas as well as my interest. the second time reading it, it earns more stars. i understand it more.