Question

how did the magna carta lay the foundation for democracy

Answer 1

http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/source/magnacarta.html

Answer 2

The Magna Carta is legitimately referred to as an early step in the process of achieving the principle of one person, one vote. Really, it began much further back, even including Hammurabi's Code and the Mosaic Law.

For British history (and the history of its former colonial dominions, such as America), the Magna Carta helped establish the principle, in law, that the King did not possess absolute power. The charter recognized the barons and the Church as also having government-type authority.

Several parts of the Magna Carta are still considered British law today, such as the 39th clause. It ensures that all free men are guaranteed some sort of speedy justice before their peers. The peers part is notable because it is not before the King or his representatives, but instead assumes the equality of free men and their right to rule their own affairs and determine justice on their own.

Further separation of powers existed in another clause's recognition of the powers of London and other cities to continue in their laws and traditions despite possible royal rulings to the contrary.

The Magna Carta was more than just a document ensuring the rights of the barons; it set the precedent for one person, one vote.