ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes the origins of genocide as a global-historical phenomenon, providing a sense of genocide's frequency through history. It examines the origin and evolution of the concept, unravels some central theoretical debates, and explores 'contested cases' that test the boundaries of the genocide framework. A rich body of case study literature also developed, with genocides such as those against the Armenians, Cambodians, and East Timorese as well as indigenous peoples worldwide receiving serious and sustained attention. The reader should be aware that this requirement, unspoken hereafter, guides the analysis of genocide offered in this book, and the range of cases presented to illustrate it. The author seek to convey an understanding of genocide in which international law is a vital but not a dominant consideration. As long as genocide remains an essentially contested concept and it always will the authors should continue the discussion and debate, and turn the conceptual ferment to our advantage.
