World War II and War Crimes

In this simulation set at the end of the Second World War, students become global leaders tasked with decision-making at a key moment in the 20th century. Together, as the Allied powers, they must decide the appropriate legal framework and penalty structure for the defeated German leadership.

This exercise is a simulation of the London 4-Power Conference of Jurists, where representatives from each of the Allied powers met to establish a set of guidelines for how to deal with the German leadership. The delegates from each of these states needed to come to a unanimous agreement on four specific issues that would give shape to the process which German leaders would face.

Students represent the Allied powers (the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, and France). A scenario is provided along with a private role sheet to give students additional information about their assigned role's positions and interests. This simulation includes an opportunity for students to develop, debate, and vote on specific proposal plans to address the issues in the scenario.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

• One or more Internet-connected computers or devices per team. (Optimized for desktop and laptop computers.)
• Up-to-date web browser. (Internet Explorer is not supported.)
• JavaScript and pop-up windows must be enabled. (Check your browser settings.)
• No plug-ins or additional software required.