1. How & why does King John have his power limited?
The Magna Carta
How & why does King John have his power limited?

2. 1066: William of Normandy invades England – claims English throne
William ends feudalism and develops democracy
Generations later, Henry II begins jury trials & common law (law based on past legal rulings)
1189: Henry’s son Richard strengthens these reforms
1199: Richard dies, has no children, power struggle for the crown but Richard’s brother John takes the crown
John weakens democracy by starting unnecessary wars, raising taxes, limiting legal rights & fighting with the Church
1215: Nobles force John to sign the Magna Carta, which limits the King’s power & guarantees rights

3. Impact of the Magna Carta
Church has freedom from King (separate Church & State)
Citizens have a right to a fair & speedy trial
No taxes on unless agreed by a council of elected citizens (Parliament)
Punishment should fit the crime
Person jailed must be told of the charges against them (Habeas Corpus)