Short History Of...

The Nuremberg Trial

Dec 8, 2025
James Bulgin, Head of Public History at the Imperial War Museum and author, provides deep insights into the historical significance of the Nuremberg Trial. He discusses how the Allies united to establish this unprecedented legal framework to hold Nazi leaders accountable. The shocking revelations of wartime atrocities and the innovative courtroom strategies, including powerful testimonies and graphic evidence, captivated the audience. Bulgin also explores the trial's lasting legacy on human rights law and future international justice.
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INSIGHT

Trial As Moral And Preventive Act

  • The Allies decided to prosecute top Nazi figures to confront unprecedented systematic atrocities.
  • They saw trials as both justice and a safeguard against future revivals of Nazism.
INSIGHT

New Legal Framework Emerges

  • The London talks created new charges because existing law didn't cover Nazi crimes.
  • They framed four charges including the novel crimes against humanity to hold leaders accountable.
INSIGHT

Design To Avoid Victor's Justice

  • The tribunal prioritized legitimacy to avoid claims of victor's justice.
  • Defendants received presumption of innocence and a panel of four allied judges instead of a jury.
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