PEACE

As applied to the affairs of a state or nation peace may be either external or internal. In the former case, the term denotes the prevalence of amicable relations and mutual good will between the particular society and all foreign powers. In the latter case, it means the tranquility, security, and freedom from commotion or disturbance which is the sign of good order and harmony and obedience to the laws among all the members of the society. In a somewhat technical sense, peace denotes the quiet, security, good order, and decorum which is guarantied by the constitution of civil society and by the laws. The concord or final agreement in a fine of lands. 18 Edw. I. “Modus Levandi Finis.” Articles of the peace. See Articles. Bill of peace. See Bill. Breach of peace. See Breach. Conservator of the peace. See Conservator. Justice of the peace. See that title. Peace of God and the church. In old English law. That rest and cessation which the king’s subjects had from trouble and suit of law between the terms and on Sundays and holidays. Cowell; Spelman. Peace of the state. The protection, security, and immunity from violence which the state undertakes to secure and extend to all persons within its jurisdiction and entitled to the benefit of its laws. This is part of the definition of murder, it being necessary that the victim should be “in the peace of the state,” which now practically includes all persons except armed public enemies. See Murder. And see State v. Dunkley, 25 N. C. 121. Peace officers. This term is variously defined by statute in the different states; but generally it includes sheriffs and their deputies, constables, marshals, members of the police force of cities, and other officers whose duty is to enforce and preserve the public peace. The peace or tranquillity of the community in general; the good order and repose of the people composing a state or municipality.