Through all of time, no matter how many times the bank system makes changes, the bank checks remain constant. Today, just as the Romans of the ancient empire, we depend on bank checks as promissory notes.
Earliest use of bank checks
Ancient Romans are thought to have been the first to use a form of bank checks, though the system was not nearly as complicated or regulated as it is today. Records indicate that they used what were known as praescriptiones as early as 100 BC. Nearly four hundred years later, bankers in the Persian Empire utilized a similar system of credit.
In The Medieval Period
Another variation of the modern day bank check system developed in Europe around the middle ages. During that time, the banking center known as the Knights Templar used a check system to hold money for people who took trips across Europe. These people would deposit their money at one station, and then claim it from another by proof of a claim draft. This was one of the earliest uses of a paper check system for claiming funds. It is thought that the Knights picked up this idea from Muslims, who had been using it for a few hundred years prior.
Bill of exchange
The roots of the current check system come from what was known as a "bill of exchange" by early bankers. Using this system, early banks would allow people to pay necessary bills using bank mandated orders. This made commerce much easier, as people could participate in trade without the need for a large exchange of gold or currency. Overall, this was a necessary development, as carrying around large amounts of coin was both difficult and dangerous for traveling merchants.
Bank checks in the U.S.A.
In the United States, European individuals brought bank checks to existence during the Colonial time. In the early 1700's, the system was so extremely popular in Europe that the colonists also adopted it. Bank security procedures have become far more complicated over the past decades. The changes made to bank checks are there to protect you, the consumer.
William Gordon contributes articles on many check related consumer topics such as check security and where to find discount checks, check designs and hip checkbook covers.
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