Sir Edward Coke

Sir Edward Coke (1552-1634) was an influential English lawyer, judge, and politician known for his contributions to the development of English law. He served as Chief Justice of the Common Pleas and was a key figure in establishing the principle of parliamentary sovereignty. Coke advocated for the rights of individuals and the importance of common law, emphasizing that no one, not even the king, is above the law. His writings, particularly "The Institutes of the Law of England," have had a lasting impact on legal systems, influencing both English and American law, and he is often regarded as a founding figure of legal thought.