The are the bedrock of English local identity and governance, evolving from Anglo-Saxon administrative districts into today's ceremonial and administrative counties. While many have been reorganized or split, their names persist in culture, sport, and everyday speech. The term "shire county" now officially denotes the non-metropolitan, predominantly rural counties of modern England.
The shires were first established by King Alfred of Wessex in the late 9th century as a way to organize the kingdom's military and administrative divisions. The term "shire" is derived from the Old English word "scīr," meaning "district" or "region." Over time, the shires evolved to become the primary units of local government, with each shire having its own council, known as the county council. the shires of england
There are several types of shires in England, including: The are the bedrock of English local identity