The+Magna+Carta

=British History Overview=

Political Background • King John attempts to abridge feudal rights from the nobility. Barons are angry because of the over-taxation for the war. Nobility wants more power!

Magna Carta •
Nobility forces King John to sign Magna Carta following a short war in 1215

• Main Ideas:
• “Rule of Law” = everyone must obey the law, even the king • Contract between people and the ruler • Certain rights may not be denied (inalienable rights) • Representatives of the people should take part in government

• Impact of the __Magna Carta__:
• Applies to nobility, not all kings’ subjects • **//Sets stage//** for future constitutional government and formation of PARLIAMENT • Influences U.S. Bill of Rights Petition of Rights • Struggle for power between King Charles and Parliament in 1628 • Limits king’s power to tax the people • Guaranteed “habeas corpus”

Civil war between Protestants and Catholics
• Protestants defeat King James II in 1688 English Bill of Rights • Justified Glorious Revolution, removal of James II • Established system of checks and balances for king • Parliament comes to dominate English government