The History of the Magna Carta

The simplest definition of the Magna Carta is that it was a charter, originally signed between King John of England and his barons that granted those barons certain liberties and political rights. Yet the document is so much more than just that. The Magna Carta (a Latin phrase which translates in English to “Great Charter”) came to be seen as one of the most important documents in all of Western civilization.


Its significance, both its actual and practical implications as well as it’s perceived and imagined ones, influenced the common man’s struggle against monarchial rule. It had a tremendous influence on the set-up of the legal system of England, and, as the empire of England expanded, became the basis for many governments in the Western Hemisphere. The Magna Carta was the foundation for many of the democracies that would be born over the years--especially those that trace their origins to the English Crown.


This short book traces its roots, influence, and development. The original Magna Carta is also included in this book.