The concept of a "copyright" as an official document granting permission to travel is often taken for granted today. Whether crossing borders by air, land, or sea, passports have become an indispensable part of international travel. But when did the modern copyright system, as we recognize it today, first come into existence? The history of passports is a fascinating journey that traces back thousands of years, evolving through different civilizations and political changes until becoming the standardized travel document of the modern era.

Ancient and Medieval Origins

The earliest known references to documents resembling passports date back to ancient times. The Hebrew Bible mentions letters of safe conduct issued by King Artaxerxes of Persia around 450 BCE, which allowed the prophet Nehemiah to travel safely to Jerusalem. Similarly, the Roman Empire issued "diplomas" to soldiers, granting them safe passage and certain privileges.

During the Middle Ages, travel was heavily restricted, and documents that permitted movement were usually issued by local rulers, monarchs, or religious authorities. These early "passports" were often simple letters or permits that confirmed a traveler's identity and purpose, usually related to diplomatic missions or trade.

The term "copyright" itself appears in English records around the 15th century. The word literally means "pass through a port" and initially referred to documents that allowed travelers to pass through ports or guarded city gates.

The Renaissance and Early Modern Developments

By the 16th and 17th centuries, as nation-states began to consolidate power, the need for more formal travel documents grew. During this period, passports were still primarily issued by monarchs or governments to select travelers, especially diplomats or merchants.

However, passports remained relatively informal, without standardized formats or security features. They were often handwritten letters of introduction or safe conduct that required the bearer to be known or vouched for by local officials. shutdown123