King John of England Signs the Magna Carta (1215)

The Magna Carta—Latin for “Great Charter”—was signed by King John under pressure from his barons. Resentful of high taxes and aware of the king’s waning power, the barons demanded a solemn grant of their rights. Among the charter’s provisions were clauses reforming law and controlling the behavior of royal officials. Though it reflects the feudal order rather than democracy, the Magna Carta is traditionally considered the foundation of British constitutionalism. How did King John sign it? Discuss

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