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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Cinque Ports
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A quick definition of Cinque Ports:
The Cinque Ports were five important ports in England that were used to defend against French invasion. These ports were Hastings, Romney, Hythe, Dover, and Sandwich. They were given special privileges and had to provide ships for use in war. The Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports was responsible for protecting them. These ports were important because they were close to France and could be used as naval bases. They had their own local courts and were allowed to have some independence in maritime law.
A more thorough explanation:
Cinque Ports (pronounced "singk ports") refers to the five English ports that were important defenses against French invasion. These ports are:
- Hastings
- Romney
- Hythe
- Dover
- Sandwich
The Cinque Ports received special privileges and were obliged to furnish a certain number of ships for use in war. They were governed by a Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, who was responsible for their protection against invasion.
For example, during the medieval period, the Cinque Ports were important naval bases because of their proximity to the continent. In exchange for special naval assistance to the king in time of war, they were permitted to acquire and maintain a position of special importance in the field of maritime law, and with it a considerable measure of local, independent jurisdiction.
The Cinque Ports played a significant role in English history, particularly in the defense against foreign invasion.