What did the Magna Carta establish regarding the king’s authority?

The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, is a foundational document in the development of constitutional law and the concept of limited government. It established the principle that the king is not above the law and that he must adhere to the same laws that apply to his subjects. This was a revolutionary idea at the time, as it marked a shift away from the notion of absolute monarchy, where a ruler had unchecked power.

By requiring the king to follow established legal processes and respect the rights of his subjects, the Magna Carta laid the groundwork for future legal systems that emphasize fairness and due process. It asserted that no one, not even the king, is above the law, setting a precedent for the development of more democratic institutions in later centuries. This principle is reflected in various modern legal doctrines and constitutions around the world, emphasizing accountability and equality before the law.