The Probert Encyclopaedia of General Information

CHARTER

A charter is a written instrument, executed with usual forms, given as evidence of a grant, contract, or other important transaction between man and man. Royal charters are such as are granted by sovereigns to convey certain rights and privileges to their subjects, such as the Great Charter, granted by King John, and charters granted by various sovereigns to boroughs and municipal bodies, to universities and colleges, or to colonies and foreign possessions; somewhat similar to which are charters granted by the state or legislature to banks and other companies or associations, etc.
Research Charter