In all conflicts there are war crimes and atrocities committed, however, there are fewer in modern times than conflicts of the past. Throughout the 20th century, war crimes and atrocities were committed by different countries at war. Historical and statistical information show that less war crimes and atrocities are committed in present day versus conflicts of the past. This paper will reflect back on specific conflicts of the past that are well known publicly, pointing out different genocides, war crimes, atrocities, and crimes against humanity. Historical information will show how the laws governing war are adhered to and enforced, and in some cases just the opposite.

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