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

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

3. II. Impact of the Magna Carta
A. Church has freedom from King (separate Church & State)
B. Citizens have a right to a fair & speedy trial
C. No taxes unless agreed by a council of elected citizens (Parliament)
D. Punishment should fit the crime
E. Inmates, family, lawyers can question whether or not an inmate is imprisoned lawfully and whether or not he should be released from custody. (Habeas Corpus)