THE MAGNA CARTA

"Today we take our freedoms for granted, but we would do well to remember that the rights and liberties we enjoy nowadays are the result of eight centuries of patient negotiation and often deadly struggle. In pursuit of our freedom, millions of words have been said; much blood has been shed. It began with Magna Carta."
- John Mcllwain

EVENTS LEADING UP TO THE MAGNA CARTA

• Financial situation of England
• Murder of Arthur of Brittany
• Unsuccessful military campaigns
• Heavy taxation and brutal collection
• Excommunication from the Roman Catholic Church

RUNNYMEDE

Signing place of the Magna Carta.

The Barons and King John met at Runnymede in June 1215.

THE CHARTER IN WRITING

King John's response to the Charter:

Annulled by Pope Innocent III within 3 months of signing.

HENRY III'S REIGN

The Charter today

Only 3 out of the 63 clauses still relevant in UK today:
Clauses 1, 13 and 39.

"The Magna Carta is the greatest constitutional document of all times- the foundation of the freedom of the individual against the arbitrary authority of the despot."

~ Lord Denning, Master of the Rolls 1965.