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 but Richard’s brother John takes the crown
1. John 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. Person jailed must be able to be visited & know their charges against them (Habeas Corpus)