Magna Carta, which means "Great Charter" in Latin, is one of the most important documents in British constitutional history. Signed by King John at Runnymede in 1215, it established fundamental principles that still influence law and governance today.
Historical Context
In 1215, King John faced a rebellion from his barons who were angry about heavy taxes and his arbitrary rule. The barons captured London and forced the King to negotiate. The result was Magna Carta—a document that placed limits on royal power for the first time.
Key Principles
Magna Carta established several revolutionary ideas:
- **No one is above the law** – Even the King must obey the law
- **Right to a fair trial** – "No free man shall be seized or imprisoned... except by the lawful judgement of his equals or by the law of the land"
- **No taxation without consent** – Major taxes required agreement from a council of barons
- **Justice cannot be sold, denied, or delayed**
Legacy
Although much of the original Magna Carta is no longer in force, its legacy is immense. It influenced:
- The English Bill of Rights (1689)
- The United States Constitution and Bill of Rights
- The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
- Modern concepts of civil liberties
Three clauses from the original charter remain on the statute book today, including the guarantee of the freedoms and rights of the English Church and the City of London.
Why It Matters for the Test
Magna Carta frequently appears in the Life in the UK test. Key facts to remember:
- Signed in **1215** by **King John** at **Runnymede**
- Established that **no one is above the law**
- Foundation of **constitutional government**