The United States' opposition to the International Criminal Court (ICC) has developed into the epitome of fierce controversy concerning the international legal order in the 21st century. This volume represents an analysis of both the legal objections asserted by the involved U.S. administrations as well as a set of political motives the author considers likely to underlie their opposition. Fostering mutual understanding is the pre-condition for achieving an ease of tension in the future - which is in the very interest not only of the ICC and its States Parties, but also of the United States.