Definitions from Black's Law Dictionary: 2nd Edition and Ballentine's Law Dictionary as are available for each term in each dictionary.
  • Ballentine's Law Dictionary

    Holding aliens as hostages to compel their nation to do justice.

  • Black's Law Dictionary: 2nd Edition

    The taking by one nation of the citizens or subjects of another, in order to compel the latter to do justice to the former. Wolffius, § 1164; Moll, de Jure Mar. 26.