Select Charters and Other Illustrations of English Constitutional History from the Earliest Times to the Reign of Edward the First

This classic text, Select Charters and Other Illustrations of English Constitutional History from the Earliest Times to the Reign of Edward the First, explores the evolution of English governance.

This source-book, Select Charters and Other Illustrations of English Constitutional History from the Earliest Times to the Reign of Edward the First, was authored by William Stubbs, a prominent figure in medieval English historiography. First published in 1870, Stubbs advocated for the inclusion of constitutional history in academic curricula. His work quickly became a foundational textbook, reflecting his belief in the importance of understanding the evolution of English governance. The ninth edition, revised in 1913, features an expanded glossary and enhanced references, making it even more accessible for students and scholars alike.

William Stubbs, who lived from 1825 to 1901, was not only a historian but also a clergyman and a prominent academic, serving as the Regius Professor of Modern History at Oxford starting in 1866. His deep interest in legal and constitutional history is evident throughout Select Charters, where he meticulously outlines the development of English constitutional frameworks. The book compiles significant documents from Roman times through the thirteenth century, emphasizing their relevance to understanding contemporary governance.

The 1913 edition, revised by H. W. C. Davis, offers improved translations of Anglo-Saxon and French texts, alongside newly discovered materials that enhance the original work. Stubbs' source-book has been recognized as a classic in the field of constitutional history, and this reissue of the ninth edition continues to serve as an essential resource for anyone studying the historical foundations of English law and governance.