By 1214, tensions had reached a boiling point. The barons, frustrated by excessive taxes and King John's abuse of power, rebelled. They demanded reforms that would guarantee their rights and limit the king’s authority. This conflict culminated in a confrontation in 1215, when the barons seized London, forcing King John to negotiate.

The barons drafted a list of demands to restrict royal authority, protect their privileges, and ensure fair governance. This document, later known as the Magna Carta (Latin for “Great Charter”), was sealed by King John at Runnymede, near Windsor, on June 15, 1215.

What is the Magna Carta?

The Magna Carta was essentially a peace treaty between King John and the rebellious barons. It contained 63 clauses that addressed various legal, financial, and feudal issues. Importantly, it sought to limit the king’s arbitrary powers and protect the rights and privileges of the barons and, by extension, other free men.

Some key provisions of the Magna Carta included:

• Protection from illegal imprisonment and the right to a fair trial (precursor to habeas corpus).
   

• Limits on taxation without the consent of the kingdom’s council.
   

• Safeguards for the Church’s freedom from royal interference.
   

• Regulations on feudal payments and inheritance rights.
   

• Rules ensuring the king could not seize property without due process.
   

While the Magna Carta was initially intended to appease the barons and protect their interests, several clauses have become foundational principles in modern legal systems. shutdown123