The English systems of land tenure have influenced land-holding far beyond Britain. Freehold, for example, a common-place in many places, has its origin in the feudal tenure of Anglo-Norman England. Much has been written about the origins of English land ownership but the contributions are hidden. This book, originally published in 1958 draws together legal, economic and social historical themes, introducing the reader to the authoritative texts of the many aspects of the subject up until the 16^th Century.