martial law
imposition of direct military control of a government
AI overview
Martial law is when the military takes direct control of a government, usually during emergencies like wars, natural disasters, or civil unrest. It matters because it typically suspends normal civilian laws and rights, giving military authorities broad power to enforce order.
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Article
Martial law is the replacement of civilian government by military rule and the suspension of civilian legal processes for military powers. Martial law can continue for a specified amount of time, or indefinitely, and standard civil liberties may be suspended for as long as martial law continues. Most often, martial law is declared in times of war or emergencies such as civil unrest and natural disasters. Alternatively, martial law may be declared in instances of military coups d'état.
Overview