Yesterday, the City of London celebrated the election of two new sheriffs amidst a grand ceremony, commemorating the 300th anniversary of an unsuccessful effort to limit the rights of Londoners to choose their sheriffs. This historic election, one of the oldest democratic practices in the UK, allows citizens to elect their sheriffs annually. The position, with roots dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era, continues to be vital in city governance. Although voting was limited, it allowed a majority of male residents to participate, marking an important democratic milestone for its time.
The election of sheriffs is one of the oldest forms of democracy in the UK, marking three centuries since an attempt to restrict Londoners' voting rights.
The title of sheriff evolved in the Anglo-Saxon period, with sheriffs historically responsible for collecting taxes and executing laws in the City of London.
The franchise for the sheriffs’ election was restricted to freemen, comprising about 80% of male residents, making it a rare democratic process in its time.
The historical significance of the election is emphasized by its continuity for over 800 years, where citizens elect two sheriffs annually for one-year terms.
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