What is a Ceasefire?

Introduction A ceasefire (or truce), also spelled cease fire (the antonym of ‘open fire’), is a temporary stoppage of a war in which each side agrees with the other to suspend aggressive actions. Historically, the concept existed at least by the time of the Middle Ages, when it was known as a ‘truce of God’.… Read More

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What was the Christmas Truce (1914)?

Introduction The Christmas truce (German: Weihnachtsfrieden; French: Trêve de Noël) was a series of widespread unofficial ceasefires along the Western Front of the First World War around Christmas 1914. The truce occurred five months after hostilities had begun. Lulls occurred in the fighting as armies ran out of men and munitions and commanders reconsidered their… Read More

What is a White Flag?

Introduction White flags have had different meanings throughout history and depending on the locale. The White Flag The white flag is an internationally recognised protective sign of truce or ceasefire, and for negotiation. It is also used to symbolise surrender, since it is often the weaker party which requests the negotiation. It is also flown… Read More