Venality

Template:Short description Template:Wiktionary Venality is a historical practice where men would pay to be placed in positions of wealth and prestige. It historically occurred among those in government or military careers. France in particular was known for frequently selling government positions during the 1500s through the late 1700s.<ref>Andrews, Richard Mowery (1994) Law, Magistracy, and Crime in Old Regime Paris, 1735-1789: Volume 1, The System of Criminal Justice, Cambridge University Press</ref>Template:Page needed In contrast, the colony of New France did not allow venality.<ref name="Conrad">Template:Cite book</ref>

Venality was prevalent in Spanish colonies in the Americas.<ref>Template:Cite book</ref>

See also

• Ancien Régime
• Nobles of the Robe