Question

need help.

What is the Magna Carta's impact on future political thought.

Answer 1

The Magna Carta, Latin for big paper, was the result of the rich guys in England getting tired of King John spending their money on wars and such. John wasn't much of a King as kings go. He was the youngest of 5 sons of Edward and wasn't going to get much land or power. The oldest 3 died, Edward died and John tried to take over as King while his brother Richard was fighting in the Crusades. (think Robin Hood here)
Richard died after coming back and slapping his brother down. But they let John be king anyway.
So, English kings were still claiming part of France in those days. John lost most of it and spent the rich guys money.
Thats why they surrounded them on Runnymeade Island in the river and told him to sign the big paper or else.
John signed. He was to weak politcaly to do anything esle. He died a little bit later.
BUT, the nobles had succeeded in limiting the king's power. When kings all over Europe were claiming absolutism and the divine right of kings, English folks were figuring out ways to further limit the monarchs power. And also realize that maybe more than just rich people had rights.