STAR CHAMBER Meaning and
Definition
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The term "Star Chamber" refers to a historical English court of law that existed during the late 15th to the 17th centuries. The Star Chamber derived its name from the room in Westminster Palace where the court proceedings took place. It was an extraordinary judicial body that gained significant power and influence, ultimately evolving into a symbol of tyrannical abuse of power.
Originally established as a royal prerogative to deal with cases beyond the jurisdiction of common law courts, the Star Chamber became notorious for its secretive proceedings and lack of due process. It was composed of prominent and influential judges, advisors, and royal officials, who acted as both judges and prosecutors. The court held extensive powers, including the ability to try cases involving matters of national security, public order, and political crimes.
One defining characteristic of the Star Chamber was its disregard for procedural safeguards, such as the right to trial by jury and the right to confront one's accusers. Defendants often faced interrogations without legal representation, leading to coerced confessions and arbitrary verdicts.
Over time, the Star Chamber became synonymous with abuses of power, corruption, and the denial of basic civil rights. It often targeted political dissidents and religious nonconformists, using its unchecked authority to suppress opposition to the crown.
The Star Chamber was eventually abolished in 1641, following growing public discontent and opposition towards its oppressive practices. Its demise marked a significant step towards the establishment of more equitable and transparent legal systems in England.
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A civil and criminal court in the reign of Henry VIII. and several of his successors, so called from the roof of the chamber in which it was held being ornamented with figures of stars, notorious for its depotic and unjust acts, abolished in the reign of Charles I.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for STAR CHAMBER
- atar chamber
- ztar chamber
- xtar chamber
- dtar chamber
- etar chamber
- wtar chamber
- srar chamber
- sfar chamber
- sgar chamber
- syar chamber
- s6ar chamber
- s5ar chamber
- stzr chamber
- stsr chamber
- stwr chamber
- stqr chamber
- stae chamber
- stad chamber
- staf chamber
- stat chamber
Etymology of STAR CHAMBER
The word "Star Chamber" is derived from the Late Latin term "camera stellata", which can be translated as "starred chamber" or "chamber adorned with stars". The name is thought to have originated from the star-covered ceiling of the room where the court was initially held. The "Star Chamber" itself refers to a former English judicial body that operated from the late 15th century to the mid-17th century.
