The Brief History of Passport

A passport is a document that certifies the identity and nationality of its holder. It allows the passport holder to travel to foreign countries and return to their home country.

The first known use of a passport was in the 14th century when a Venetian merchant named Lorenzo de’ Medici was required to carry a document with him when he traveled to Egypt.

In the 15th century, a document called the “safe conduct pass” was used by European royalty and nobility to travel between countries.

The first modern passport was introduced in England in 1540. It was a simple document that listed the holder’s name, country of origin, and destination.

In 1641, the first passport requirement was imposed by the government of the Dutch Republic. All travelers were required to have a passport to enter or leave the republic.

In 1757, King Louis XVI of France introduced the “passeport”, a document that was required for all French citizens traveling abroad.

During the French Revolution, the passeport was abolished. In its place, the “citizen’s certificate” was introduced. This document listed the holder’s name, profession, and political opinions.

After the Napoleonic Wars, the Congress of Vienna reintroduced the passport system in Europe.

In 1815, the British government introduced the “foreign travel pass”, which was required for all British citizens traveling abroad.

In 1851, the United States introduced the “passport”, a document that was required for all US citizens traveling abroad.

In 1914, the First World War broke out. During the war, passports were used as a means of controlling the movement of people.

In 1918, the International Labour Organization was founded. One of its aims was to standardize passport requirements.