staple
staple former term for a centre of trade, especially in a specified commodity, such as wool; originally, a town or place, appointed by royal authority, in which was a body of merchants with exclusive right of purchase for certain classes of goods destined for export. An ordinance of Edward III in 1353, the Statute of the Staple, established staples in a number of English towns as well as at Carmarthen, Dublin, Waterford, Cork, and Drogheda.
At various times the chief staple was overseas; from about 1390 to 1558 it was at Calais, which was sometimes called the Staple.
At various times the chief staple was overseas; from about 1390 to 1558 it was at Calais, which was sometimes called the Staple.
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staple
