How many varas are in a league as defined in land measurement?

In land measurement, a league is defined as having 5,000 varas. This definition originates from historical surveying systems established in Spanish and Mexican land grants. A vara is a traditional unit of measurement that varies somewhat based on regional usage but is generally considered to be approximately 33 inches in length.

Understanding the context of land grants and how units were historically employed in surveying is crucial, particularly in Texas, where these measurements have influenced land use and property boundaries. The concept of a league encompasses a square area measuring 5,000 varas per side, leading to a calculated area of approximately 25 square miles. This measurement is significant in land surveying, especially in historical contexts where land parcels were defined and distributed. The precise definition of 5,000 varas helps navigate legal descriptions and understanding property courses in Texas and similar jurisdictions influenced by Spanish land law.