
Historical nobility
Historical nobility refers to a social class composed of individuals who held hereditary titles, land, or privileges granted by a monarch or ruling authority. Nobles often served as rulers, landowners, or military leaders, and their status was typically inherited across generations. This class played a key role in governance, social hierarchy, and land management in many past societies. Nobility often enjoyed special rights and exemptions, reinforcing their elite position. Over time, the influence of nobility declined with social and political changes such as democratization and modern legal systems.