Magna Carta, translating to “The Great Charter” is a document that has become the backbone of many important documents today. Activists and politicans like Thomas Jefferson and Mahatma Ghandi have cited this scripture. In addition, the US declaration of Independance and The Universal declaration of Human Rights all echo the Magna Carta.
The Great Charter’s….multiple introductions
This document was first drafted in 1215 from the negotiations between the King John and a group of rebel barons. The barons took over London since the King was not abiding to the law. He would also impose harsh taxes on his people to fund his wars and threaten them with seizure of property or severe punishment if they don’t comply. Neither party had even complied to the negotiations, leading to the First Barons’ War.
To prevent further wars from occuring between the King and the Barons, this document was reissued multiple times in the 13th Century, until it became part of English Law.
Why the Magna Carta?
The document’s purpose was to limit the king’s powers and make him obey the law. Also, it is famous for stating that all free men were given the right to justice and fair trial. This concept is currently found in the Human rights declaration. At the time, this would only apply to men who were British and were not slaves but now it applies universally.
‘No man shall be arrested or imprisoned except by the judgment of their equals and by the law of the land. To no one will we sell, to no one deny or delay right or justice.’
39th Clause of Magna Carta
Magna Carta also started the concept of “rule of law”, which mentions that everyone has to abide to the law, regardless of status, wealth etc.
This Historical Document Today
Nowadays, this document has four original copies, all found in England. Two can be found in the British Library, another one in Lincoln Castle and another in Salisbury Cathedral.
Fortunately, we do possess a copy of the Magna Carta, in conjunction with the translation of the original document (We have tried reading it but ye old english is not our forte unfortunately). Alternatively, we have something on Cafe Royal Menus if you want more British history.