Oxford and Cambridge Act 1571 facts for kids
| Act of Parliament | |
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| Long title | An Acte for Thincorporacion of bothe Thunyversities. |
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| Citation | 13 Eliz. 1. c. 29 |
| Other legislation | |
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Status: Amended
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| Text of the Oxford and Cambridge Act 1571 as in force today (including any amendments) within the United Kingdom, from legislation.gov.uk | |
The Oxford and Cambridge Act 1571 was an important law passed by the Parliament of England in 1571. Its main goal was to officially recognize and give special powers to the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. This law helped make these two universities official and powerful institutions.
What Was the Oxford and Cambridge Act?
The Oxford and Cambridge Act of 1571 was a special law. It was passed by the Parliament of England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. This Act is also known by its official citation, 13 Eliz. 1. c. 29.
The main purpose of this Act was to "incorporate" both universities. This means it gave them a formal legal identity. It made them official bodies with their own rights and rules.
Why Was This Act Important for Universities?
Before this Act, the universities of Oxford and Cambridge existed. However, they did not have a clear legal standing. This Act changed that. It gave them the legal power to manage their own affairs.
It allowed them to own property and make their own rules. This was a big step for their independence. It helped them grow into the famous universities they are today. The Act showed that the government supported these learning centers.
How Did the Act Change Over Time?
Parts of the Oxford and Cambridge Act 1571 were still in use in Great Britain even at the end of 2010. However, some sections of the Act have been changed or removed over the years.
For example, a part of the Act that made officials in the City of Oxford take an oath to protect the university's rights was later removed. This change happened with the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge Act 1859. This shows how laws can be updated as times change.
