Magna Carta Research Paper

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Magna Carta, is one of the most important written document from the History for both modern government and western civilization. It was the first written document signed by a king, King John of England, to restrict his own power and protect the basic rights of the people. King John was forced to sign the Magna Carta by Lords and Clergy with the help of Knights because they threatened to kill him if he does not sign it. Though most of the problems were solved by this treaty such as distributed power, protection from false imprisonment, but Feudalism was still a problem even after the king signed the documents. One of the most important accomplishments of this document was the establishment of Parliament and House of Lords. Most of the modern …show more content…

Being a written document of history, it has influenced most of the governments around the world. It was a huge step in the establishment of an equal justice system and democracy, though many of the laws that are mentioned in Magna Carta are not implemented by present governments. Before it was signed by King John, kings could prosecute anyone, increase taxes, wage wars, and could perform many other power abuses without any consultation. King John began raising taxes as he pleased which led to power imbalance, so the lords and clergy with the help of knights forced king John to sign the document. The ultimate gain from Magna Carta is a law known as Habeas corpus, which means no one is guilty until proven or the accused person is clear from conviction if there is no evidence. It also started a standard that everyone is subjected to the law and are guaranteed right to fair trial, justice and personal rights from government. Many of the constitution have adopted many ideas from Magna Carta, including the United States and it has also influenced the American Bill of Rights. Many of the dictators around the world who abused the power were overthrown by peoples because they were denied their basic protection from the

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