In history, a charter is a special document that grants rights and privileges to a person, group, or organization. Charters are official permissions given by a government or ruler. They can outline rules, responsibilities, and freedoms. For example, during the colonial period in America, charters were granted to establish colonies. These documents set out the purpose of the colony, the rights of the settlers, and the relationship with the ruling country. Charters were crucial in shaping early American society and government. Today, charters are still used to create organizations like schools or businesses. They serve as a foundation for how these institutions operate and the goals they aim to achieve.