Meaning: This quote by Ludwig Quidde, a German pacifist and historian, reflects his belief in the significant impact of the Hague Conference on the development of international law. Quidde's assertion that the history of international law will be divided into two distinct periods highlights the transformative nature of the conference and its lasting influence on the global legal framework.

The Hague Conference, also known as the Hague Peace Conferences, refers to a series of international meetings held in The Hague, Netherlands, at the end of the 19th and early 20th centuries. The first conference took place in 1899 and was followed by a second conference in 1907. These gatherings brought together representatives from various countries to discuss issues related to disarmament, arbitration of international disputes, and the laws of war.

Quidde's recognition of the Hague Conference as a pivotal moment in the history of international law is rooted in the significant agreements and conventions that emerged from these meetings. One of the most notable outcomes was the establishment of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which provided a framework for peaceful resolution of conflicts between nations. Additionally, the conferences led to the adoption of several international treaties and declarations aimed at regulating the conduct of states during wartime and promoting peaceful coexistence.

By delineating the history of international law into two distinct periods, Quidde underscores the profound impact of the Hague Conference on shaping the modern legal landscape. Prior to the conference, international law was characterized by a patchwork of customary practices, treaties, and principles that lacked a comprehensive and systematic framework. The agreements reached at the Hague Conference marked a significant shift towards the codification and standardization of international legal norms.

Moreover, Quidde's assertion implies that the period preceding the Hague Conference was characterized by a different set of norms and practices governing international relations. This period encompassed the development of foundational principles of international law, including the concept of state sovereignty, the recognition of diplomatic immunity, and the emergence of customary rules governing the conduct of states. However, the Hague Conference represented a turning point by formalizing and expanding upon these principles through multilateral agreements and conventions.

In the aftermath of the Hague Conference, international law experienced a notable evolution, marked by an increasing emphasis on the peaceful settlement of disputes, the protection of civilian populations during armed conflict, and the establishment of mechanisms for international cooperation and legal enforcement. The conference's impact reverberated across the 20th century, influencing subsequent developments in international law, including the creation of the United Nations and the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Quidde's perspective on the historical significance of the Hague Conference resonates with the broader recognition of this event as a watershed moment in the evolution of international law. His prophetic assertion anticipates the enduring legacy of the conference and its enduring impact on the development of a more robust and comprehensive international legal framework.

In conclusion, Ludwig Quidde's quote encapsulates the transformative impact of the Hague Conference on the history of international law. By envisioning a division between the period before and after the conference, Quidde emphasizes the pivotal role of this event in shaping the modern legal landscape. The agreements and principles arising from the Hague Conference have left an indelible mark on international law, underscoring the enduring relevance of this historic gathering in the ongoing pursuit of global peace and justice.