There is not a clearly defined framework within the national security dialogue of the United States, which sufficiently details compelling another government to capitulate as an end-state to the use of military force. When deciding to use military force the U.S. should consider all options. One option is to force a belligerent government to capitulate. Governmental capitulation is defined as "The situation in a country at the national level, where the ruling authorities have relinquished power and do not control the country. The military is destroyed or rendered incapable of conducting medium or large- scale operations. The populace is subjected to martial law by an occupying force."

My research revealed how the roots of strategy, diplomacy, peace, and security intertwine to reveal models or frameworks that best detail what courses of action can be taken when nations are faced with threats to national security. Part of this research included historical examples where governmental capitulation was achieved and produced long-term peace and stability. It includes examples where governmental capitulation was not achieved and peace and stability were not secured.

This thesis outlines a model for planning and analyzing the conditions for governmental capitulation to be used as part of the national security dialogue prior to commitment of U.S. Armed Forces.