3. 1215 – Magna Carta

The Magna Carta (“Great Charter”) is one of the most important documents in history. It established that everyone – even the King – had to abide by the law. It also guarantees the right to a fair trial for everyone. This last rule is still a law today.

The Magna Carta was drawn up as a way of negociating a peace treaty between King John and rebel barons. Although the King immediately tried to get it annulled, and it did not achieve the peace deal intended, it is considered one of the first steps in England taken towards establishing parliamentary democracy.