What is the primary purpose of the Magna Carta, signed in 1215?

The primary purpose of the Magna Carta, signed in 1215, was to limit the powers of the king and establish legal rights. This document emerged from a conflict between the monarchy and rebellious barons who sought to address grievances regarding royal authority and arbitrary rule. By asserting certain legal rights, such as the right to a fair trial and protection from unlawful imprisonment, the Magna Carta laid the groundwork for the development of constitutional law.

This concept of limiting government power is crucial because it introduced the idea that the monarch was not above the law. This principle has influenced numerous legal documents and constitutional frameworks around the world, including the United States Constitution. The Magna Carta is often viewed as a foundational text in the establishment of individual rights and the rule of law, making it a significant turning point in history regarding the relationship between authority and the governed.