The term gravamina (plural) comes from Latin gravamen (“encumbrance,” “burden”). In late medieval and early modern European history, gravamina were collectively drafted grievances, complaints, and requests, presented in writing and/or recited orally before the ruler or his representatives at specially institutionalized events – usually at assemblies of the estates (Estates, assembly of) but also on occasions of homage, political visitations, etcetera. The te…