Charter, called articles of incorporation in certain instances, is a written document granted by a government. A charter entitles the holder to certain rights, powers, or liberties, such as the right to engage in business. It may be granted to a person, corporation, or local government. State charters set up the limits within which banks, corporations, and associations must conduct business. See also Atlantic Charter; Colonial life in America (Economic reasons); Corporation; Magna Carta; United Nations (The charter).
