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Copyright is a type of intellectual property that protects original works of authorship, such as literature, music, and art. Once a work is created and fixed in a tangible medium of expression, copyright protection is automatically granted without the need for registration. In most jurisdictions, this protection lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years after their death.

This duration reflects the intention to reward authors and creators for their contributions, providing them with a monetary incentive to create works that can benefit society. The 70-year period ensures that the works eventually enter the public domain, allowing others to build upon and innovate using those works without infringing on the original creator’s rights.

In contrast, design rights, trademarks, and patents do not have the same automatic duration or terms. Design rights may have varying terms based on different jurisdictions and require registration. Trademarks can last indefinitely as long as they are used and renewed appropriately. Patents typically last for a limited time, usually around 20 years from the date of application, and require formal examination and approval. These distinctions clarify why copyright is uniquely characterized by its automatic and extended protection period.