Etymology
The word "shire" is derived from the Old English word "scīr," meaning "a district or division of land." It is related to the Old Norse word "sýsla," meaning "a domain or territory."
Meaning
In its original sense, a shire was a territorial division within a kingdom or realm, often governed by a sheriff. Over time, the term came to be used in England to refer to a county, which is a subnational administrative division.
In the United States, the term "shire" is sometimes used to refer to a subdivision of a county, similar to a township.
Origin
The concept of shires as administrative divisions originated in the Anglo-Saxon period of England (c. 410-1066). During this time, the country was divided into approximately 30 shires, each with its own local government.
After the Norman Conquest in 1066, the shire system was retained and modified by the new Norman rulers. The sheriff, who was originally an official appointed by the king to govern a shire, became a key figure in the local administration of justice and law enforcement.
Over the centuries, the boundaries of shires have changed, and new shires have been created. However, the concept of shires as territorial divisions and administrative units has remained a fundamental part of English and American governance.
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