Henry VII's Statute of Uses

Henry VII's Statute of Uses, enacted in 1536, was a crucial piece of legislation in England that aimed to simplify land ownership and address issues of property inheritance. Prior to the statute, land was often held in trust, making it complex and difficult to determine rightful ownership. The statute effectively transformed these trusts into direct ownership, ensuring that property went automatically to the intended heir without passing through intermediaries. This change aimed to clarify legal rights over land, reduce tax evasion, and streamline the transfer of property, ultimately strengthening the monarchy’s control over land and wealth in England.