Hugo Grotius's The Free Sea argues for the open access of international waters to all people, promoting the idea that no one can claim ownership over the seas. Grotius emphasizes the freedom of navigation and trade, forming the basis for modern maritime law.

Informative

Inspirational

Challenging

Hopeful

Fun Facts

The Free Sea (Mare Liberum) by Hugo Grotius is considered one of the foundational texts in international law, particularly regarding the freedom of the seas and the high seas being open to all nations.

Hugo Grotius wrote the text in 1609 as a legal argument to support the Dutch's right to trade freely in the Indian Ocean against Portuguese claims of monopoly.

Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!

Initially published anonymously, the book played a crucial role in the development of the concept of mare liberum, influencing maritime law and policies worldwide.

Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!

The Book Brief page features content created with AI tools guided by SuperSummary experts. Read our content pledge to explore how we innovate using AI combined with deep literary knowledge.

Book Details

Pages

170

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre

Classic Fiction

•

Philosophy

Topic

Philosophy

•

Politics & Government

•

World History

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult