Understanding Martial Law vs. A Police State Martial Law: Military takes full control over law enforcement, typically in crisis situations. Civilian authorities are sidelined; civil liberties may be suspended. Historical instances in the US, but none recently. Triggered by national security threats, natural disasters, civil unrest, an EMP. Police State: Government exerts tight control over society, often at the expense of civil liberties. Characterized by long-term surveillance and enforcement b