The study of international law has, in recent times, appeared disconnected from real world politics. In this book, international law is introduced as a dynamic process with an explicit connection to the contemporary realpolitik.

Following an historical overview of the development of international law - starting with ancient Rome and continuing up to the present day - the author considers the basic principles of international law in specific fields, focusing on the application of international legal principles in domestic courts. Van Dervort concludes with an examination of law on an international plane, discussing disputes between sovereign nation-states.