THE RECORD
What changed
The UN Charter was signed in San Francisco and entered into force in October 1945, creating bodies including the General Assembly and Security Council.
EVIDENCE
What remains
The Charter, minutes, resolutions and operational records document both work and limits.
WHY IT MATTERS
Why it matters
It created a continuing global forum for negotiating cross-border problems.
OPEN QUESTION
Where interpretation begins
The veto and unequal representation reflect 1945 power; the UN did not end war.