League (unit)
A league is a historic unit of length, varying in different countries and eras. It was commonly used to denote the distance a person or animal could walk in an hour.
General Description:
The league is primarily a unit of terrestrial distance. Its exact length has varied considerably depending on geographical location and the specific purpose for which it was used. It is generally understood to be a distance somewhere between 2.4 and 4.6 miles (3.9 and 7.4 kilometers).
Historical Variations:
-
English League: Historically, the English land league was defined as three statute miles, equivalent to approximately 4.8 kilometers or 3 nautical miles.
-
French League: The French lieue (league) had several variations. The lieue commune was about 3.9 kilometers. The lieue marine was exactly 5.555 kilometers, or 3 nautical miles.
-
Spanish and Portuguese League: In Spanish and Portuguese-speaking regions, the legua was commonly used, often equivalent to roughly 4.2 to 6.7 kilometers (2.6 to 4.2 miles), but with considerable local variation.
-
Nautical League: A nautical league is typically defined as three nautical miles, which is equivalent to approximately 5.556 kilometers or 3.452 statute miles.
Usage and Decline:
The league was a common unit of measurement for long distances, particularly in pre-metric systems. With the widespread adoption of the metric system, its usage has significantly declined in scientific and technical contexts. However, it still appears in some literature, historical contexts, and colloquial expressions. Its usage can often be seen in older maps, travel accounts, and historical documents.
Modern Relevance:
While not a standard unit of measurement in modern science or commerce, the league remains a recognizable term, primarily due to its historical significance and appearance in literature and popular culture. Understanding the historical context is crucial when encountering the term "league," as its meaning can vary depending on the region and time period in question.