Eminent Domain refers to the power of a government or its agent to take private property for public use, subject to payment of just compensation. This is an inherent right of sovereign governments and is based on the principle that the needs of the community as a whole should take precedence over individual rights in certain circumstances. The concept has been recognized since ancient times, but it was first given legal expression in English law by the Enclosure Acts of the 18th century. In modern times, eminent domain is often used for public projects such as highways, airports or other infrastructure development, and can also be exercised to acquire property for economic redevelopment purposes. The process involves a fair compensation determination and an orderly condemnation proceeding.