- A manuscript of the Magna Carta, dating from 1215, is displayed in the British Library, in London, …
The Magna Carta, or the Great Charter, was a document that gave privileges to the English people. King John placed his seal on it in 1215. The charter stated that the king of England must follow the law. He could not rule as he wished. The Magna Carta is regarded as the foundation of the constitutions of many nations. King John ruled from 1199 to 1216. The English people greatly disliked him because he was cruel and greedy. The powerful barons, church leaders, and the common people joined together against King John. The leading barons of England decided to force the king to respect the rights of his subjects. The barons and the church leaders made a list of demands. John tried to avoid giving in to their demands. However, on June 15, 1215, he met with the barons and church leaders. He agreed to their requests and sealed the Magna Carta. The Magna Carta addressed specific rights, including rights of landowners, those who rented land, and merchants. In addition, it discussed law reform and explained how royal officials should behave. The charter also gave a council of 25 barons the right to declare war on the king if he did not follow the Magna Carta. The Magna Carta was changed a few times over the years. However, by 1225 it became clear that keeping the document up-to-date would not be practical. The document became a source of basic principles of government. It was also a symbol against oppression. |