Letters of Marque
/ˈlɛtərz əv mɑːrk/
Definitions
- (n.) Official government license authorizing a private individual to attack and capture enemy vessels during wartime.
The ship sailed under letters of marque, legally permitted to seize enemy property.
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Commentary
Letters of marque are formal government documents distinct from general war commissions; careful use avoids conflating with broader privateering concepts.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.