TENANT IN CAPITE Meaning and
Definition
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Tenant in capite is a legal term that originated in medieval England and refers to a person who holds land directly from the king or other high-ranking feudal lord. The term "tenant in capite" is Latin for "tenant-in-chief." This concept emerged during the feudal system, in which land was granted by the sovereign to nobles and other landholders in exchange for their loyalty and military service.
A tenant in capite occupies a unique position in the feudal hierarchy, as they have a direct relationship with the crown and are not subordinate to any other landholder. They have the highest legal and social status among the tenants within the feudal system, as their holdings are directly tied to the monarch.
The rights and responsibilities of a tenant in capite are different from those of other tenants. They are obliged to provide military service to the king, contribute financially in times of war or other urgent needs, and may have jurisdictional privileges over their land. They also have the right to hold courts, collect rents and dues, and administer justice within their estates.
The status of tenant in capite carries prestige, as it signifies a close connection to the ruling powers. However, it also entails significant responsibilities and obligations. This form of land tenure gradually diminished with the decline of the feudal system and the emergence of other forms of land ownership. Nonetheless, the term continues to have historical and legal significance in understanding medieval landholding and governance structures.
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One who holds immediately from the Crown.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TENANT IN CAPITE
