Explanation of Squatter Sovereignty
Many people associate squatter sovereignty with squatter's rights, but the two concepts are very different. Squatters who take up residence in an abandoned home, pay the utilities, and maybe even pay the property taxes will eventually have the right to claim the property as their own if they aren't evicted by the rightful owner. Squatter sovereignty, on the other hand, is a political doctrine from the 19th century that was practiced in the United States.
Squatter Sovereignty Involved Civil War State Admission
The process of becoming a state can be a complicated one in the US. In the 19th century, as the nation was pushing towards the West, the settled areas were becoming territories. When enough people settled into a territory, they could petition to become a state. During the decade or so prior to the Civil War, the doctrine of squatter sovereignty gave each state a choice: they could become a slave state or a free state. The first application of squatter sovereignty came in 1850 when New Mexico and Utah were organized. It could be argued that this principle even became part of the foundations that would lead to the Civil War as violent struggles would often break out, especially in Kansas, between those who were for slavery and those who were against it. The goal of squatter sovereignty was to save the United States from the growing polarization of slavery and state's rights. It was seen as a compromise because it let the people choose, but the people fought each other instead.
Squatter Sovereignty Is Often Seen As the Voice of the People
There are many instances throughout history when squatter sovereignty has been used to create meaningful change. The Revolutionary War in the US would be another instance where this political concept was used. By having the ability to choose, the people may decide to choose to be completely independent. That's the choice that the colonies made and it created a nation. It can also be used as a process for modern social issues. Politicians are calling for a form of squatter sovereignty in the US for issues like Medicare and same-sex marriage. By leaving decisions up to the states and the people in those states, in theory a greater sense of independence can be achieved. Squatter sovereignty should never be confused with the rights of squatters. It is ruling by a majority, not the occupation of a home that isn't being actively occupied by someone else.
Related
Most Important Landlord Tenant Laws in Texas
When it comes to having a tenant for the first time, it can be pretty daunting because you are going to be the corresponding landlord and a new relationship will emerge, which will need time to grow... More
The Landlord Tenant Board: What it is and When it is Needed
Many times, there are issues between a landlord and a tenant that need to be resolved but are failed to do so, because both parties have gone too far with their actions, and have retaliated in the... More
The Landlord Tenant Laws in California
The landlord and tenant laws in California are literally the same as they are in any other state. These laws, rules and regulations are put into practice because they uphold an order, a discipline,... More
Understanding the Landlord Tenant Laws in Illinois
People are aware that there are different rulings in each state with reference to the landlord/tenant laws. The state of Illinois also has a set of laws. These rules and regulations are basically... More
How to Create a Residential Lease Agreement
Where there is a landlord, there will also be a tenant, and it is no surprise that these two parties can only work together once there is some sort of agreement, contract or a binding deal in place.... More
The Best Sites for Rental and Lease Agreement Templates
Many landlords find it difficult to write and draft a lease agreement. Since every State has its own general template, it can also be difficult to make sure your lease agreement meets all the criteria... More
The Landlord Tenant Act: What Landlords Need to Know
All landlords know that before they can formally become a landlord there are a lot of things they need to understand. Landlords and tenants cannot act as such without any legal bodies involved. That... More
Landlord Obligations: The Responsibilities of a Landlord
Becoming a landlord is a major deal and no one can simply get up and think, “well, yes I think I should be a landlord and rent out my flat.” If you are thinking that you would like to be a landlord,... More
The Best Landlord Associations for Landlords to Join
If you’re a landlord and want to manage your business in a better way, you should endeavor to get in touch with those industry experts who have the experience and the skills to help you do it. This is... More
The Best Landlord Forums
Landlords and aspiring landlords, do not become as such, without guidance and advice. There is a lot that goes into being a landlord nowadays; in fact, there is so much to learn that it often confuses... More