King John

Real World Example

King John was the King of England from 1199 to 1216, known for sealing the Magna Carta in 1215. The Magna Carta was a significant document that limited the power of the king and established principles like the rule of law and rights for "free men," marking a shift towards more democratic governance. At the time, this was crucial because it curbed the absolute power of the monarchy and laid the groundwork for constitutional governments. Today, King John's legacy continues to inspire modern legal systems, particularly in the United States and the UK, where the principles of due process and equal protection under the law are fundamental. For example, when people protest or speak out for their rights, they are following a tradition of seeking justice and fairness that can be traced back to the ideals first set down in the Magna Carta.