1. King John and the Magna Carta

2. Background. . .
John’s older brother Richard inherited the throne in 1189
Richard spent most of his 10 year reign away from England fighting in tournaments, crusades, waging war in Europe
Richard taxed his subjects heavily
But they loved him b/c he was a hero

3. King John Richard died in 1199, John became King
Ruled very differently than his brother
Stayed at home tending to day to day business
However, John continued his brother’s heavy taxation
B/C John lacked his brothers image and charisma, his people hated him b/c of his constant demands for money

4. John and the French King
Early in his reign, John tried to overtake land from the French King
He won some battles, but ultimately lost.
In 1214, John decided to try again.
He asked his Barons all over England to supply soldiers and money to fight the war.
Many refused

5. John’s response. . .
John attacked the castles of the rebellious barons
He fought the war in France, same result
The Barons sensed John was weak
The Barons met with John and demanded change
Both sides began to assemble armies

6. The Battled Ensued. . .
John openly refused to negotiate the terms of his power
The rebel Barons overtook London
They fortified their own castles and were ready for war
John had his own forces, but was unsure if he could win.

7. Runnymede
Both sides met here in June of 1215, to talk and try to pursuade the neutrals.
Most of John’s forces were scattered throughout England.
The entre rebel force was there to meet John.
John gave in and agreed to the Rebel demands

8. Magna Carta
Revolutionary document that secured the law is higher than the King
Major reforms
Religious freedom
Trial by jury
Freedom from taxation w/o cause
Due process
This document was the first step toward representative Government.