Magna Carta
During the Middle Ages, Nation-States developed Nation-state- self-governing countries made up of people with the same cultural background
In England William the Conqueror invaded and conquered England He established Feudalism in England Feudalism strengthened the power of the king Kings had absolute power – control over everything
King John Had an absolute monarchy during his reign He was not a popular man He heavily taxed nobles and the church to pay for military defeats He took church lands He was excommunicated (kicked out) from the Catholic Church Got rid of archbishops he did not like w/out the Pope’s approval
King John Nobles were so upset the revolted against King John The nobles forced King John to sign the Magna Carta (Great Charter)
Magna Carta Gave basic rights to nobles Created assemblies Created the Great Council (known now as Parliament) Established due process-right to justice Established trial by jury