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Stop of the Exchequer

English history

Quick Summary

The "Stop of the Exchequer" refers to a historical event in English history. In 1672, King Charles II, facing financial difficulties, ordered the temporary closure of the Exchequer, which was responsible for managing royal revenue. This action effectively halted the repayment of loans that had been made to the Crown.12

The Exchequer itself originated in the 12th century under Henry I and was named after the checkered cloth used for accounting. It evolved into a department for receiving and disbursing public funds, with a lower section acting as the Treasury and an upper section functioning as a court for revenue matters. The "Stop of the Exchequer" caused significant financial distress and undermined confidence in the government's ability to meet its obligations.12

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