Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science (Volume 10) (Paperback)

Book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1897. Excerpt: ... .changes, however, has not been essentially different from those that have taken place in the rural bodies. It may, be said that these variations in the local organization though confusing to the student of the English system, by no means affect the conclusions at which we have thus far arrived. The conclusion of the foregoing study is that there are three general periods in the development of the present organization of local administration in England: -- First, that of the struggle between the crown and the nobles, in which the latter were victorious By this victory the nobles gradually secured control of the local administration, and this control was subsequently transferred in part to the landed gentry. This is the period of extreme and aristocratic decentralization. Second, following on a radical change in economic and social conditions, there comes a fundamental political reform, which leads also to the establishment of new organs of local administration more directly in sympathy with the people. At the same time, a marked and important extension of state activity takes place and the great importance of the new duties thus confronting the local bodies renders necessary the establishment of a strong central control. This period, lasting from 1834 to the present time, may be looked on as the era of centralization and popularization. Third, in the laws of 1888 and 1894 may be found signs of a new tendency. The re-establishment of the parish, though under central control, has led to a comparative strengthening of local institutions. Similarly the transfer from the central to the local organization of those powers not deemed essential to the maintenance of an efficient central control marks the definite close of the era of centralization. James T. Young. University of Pennsylvania. ...