Mary Allen
Introduction: What are Shires?
Shires are a traditional administrative division of England that dates back to Anglo-Saxon times. They are geographic regions that were originally defined by their borders and governed by a local official known as a “shire-reeve” or “sheriff.” Today, shires are still used in England as a way of organizing local government, although their role has evolved significantly over the centuries.
Early English Kingdoms and Administration
The origins of the shire system can be traced back to the early English kingdoms that existed before the Norman Conquest. These kingdoms were divided into administrative units known as “hundreds,” which were further subdivided into “tithings” or “townships.” The role of the hundred was to provide a local court and to collect taxes, while the township was responsible for maintaining law and order within its boundaries.
The Anglo-Saxon Shires
The shire system as we know it today began to emerge during the Anglo-Saxon period, around the 7th century AD. The first shires were established in the south and east of England, where the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms were strongest. Each shire was governed by a sheriff, who was appointed by the king and responsible for upholding the law and collecting taxes. Over time, the shires became more formalized and began to take on a greater role in local government.
The Norman Conquest and the Shire System
The Norman Conquest of England in 1066 marked a major turning point in the history of the shire system. The new Norman rulers brought with them a more centralized form of government, which replaced the old Anglo-Saxon system of local administration. However, the shires were not abolished entirely, and the role of the sheriff remained important in maintaining law and order.
The Role of the Sheriff
The sheriff was a key figure in the shire system, responsible for enforcing the law and collecting taxes. They were appointed by the king and had wide-ranging powers, including the ability to raise an army in times of war. The sheriff also had a role in local justice, presiding over the shire court and acting as a judge in criminal cases.
The Decline of Shires in the Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, the power of the shires began to decline as the central government became more powerful. The role of the sheriff was gradually reduced, and the shire courts lost much of their authority. However, the shires continued to exist as administrative units, and their borders remained largely unchanged.
The Revival of Shires in the Tudor Era
The shires experienced a revival during the Tudor period, when the central government began to rely more heavily on local officials to administer the country. The role of the sheriff was reinstated, and the shire courts regained some of their authority. This period also saw the establishment of county councils, which were responsible for overseeing local government within the shires.
The Development of County Councils
The development of county councils marked a significant change in the role of the shires. The councils were established in the late 19th century and were responsible for a wide range of local government functions, including education, public health, and welfare. The shires became more closely tied to these councils, and their role in local government expanded significantly.
The Impact of Industrialization on Shires
The Industrial Revolution had a profound impact on the shires, as industrialization led to the growth of towns and cities within their boundaries. This led to a shift in power away from the rural areas and towards the urban centers, and the shires began to play a more important role in managing these new urban areas.
Shires in Modern England
Today, the shires still exist as administrative units in England, although their role has changed significantly over the centuries. They are now largely responsible for providing local government services, such as social services, highways, and waste management. The shires are also home to some of England’s most iconic landmarks, such as Stonehenge and the Cotswolds.
Differences between English and American Shires
The shire system in England has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon period and is unique to that country. In the United States, a similar system exists in the form of counties, which serve a similar administrative function. However, the origins of the county system in America are different, and it has evolved differently over time.
Conclusion: The Significance of Shires in English History
The shire system has played a significant role in English history, serving as an important administrative unit for over a thousand years. The shires have evolved over time, adapting to the changing needs of society, and have remained an important part of English culture and identity. Today, the shires continue to play a vital role in local government, providing services and maintaining the unique character of England’s rural areas.