Medieval charters were official documents issued during the Middle Ages, typically by a monarch or a lord. They granted rights, privileges, or land to individuals or communities, often outlining the terms of these grants. Charters played a crucial role in establishing legal rights and governance, serving as a foundation for local laws and customs. These documents often included details about the responsibilities of the grantee and the obligations owed to the crown or lord. Charters could also confirm existing rights, such as those of a town or monastery, and were essential for the development of feudalism and local governance in medieval society.