Neutrality

(nu-tral'e-te.) [From L. neutral is, belonging to neither side.] (International Law.) A nation which does not take part, directly or indirectly, in a war between other nations, is said to be neutral. Certain rights and obligations towards the belligerents arise; and through the infraction of these, the neutral power frequently becomes involved in hostilities with one or the other of them. A neutral nation has the right to furnish either of the contending nations with all supplies which do not fall under the description of contraband of war, and to conclude treaties unconnected with the subject of the war; also, though this rule is sometimes set aside by the nece ities of a powerful belligerent, to carry the property of any one of the hostile nations in its ve els, and under the security of its flag. [s. 639]