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Also, what is the Magna Carta in simple terms?
The Magna Carta (Latin for “Great Charter”) was a document that gave certain rights to the English people. King John of England agreed to it on June 15, 1215. The Magna Carta stated that the king must follow the law. He could not simply rule as he wished.
Considering this, why did John sign the Magna Carta?
Here the barons demanded that King John sign a document called the Magna Carta guaranteeing them certain rights. By signing the document, King John agreed to do his duty as King of England, upholding the law and running a fair government. In return, the barons agreed to stand down and surrender London.
Definition of Magna Carta. 1 : a charter of liberties to which the English barons forced King John to give his assent in June 1215 at Runnymede. 2 : a document constituting a fundamental guarantee of rights and privileges.