Middle+Ages+Documents

This is a picture of the Magna Carta. The Magna Carta limited the power of kings. For example, it states that the king is not above the law and has to obey the law. Also, it established Parliament. Parliament is an assembly of 25 barons who would pass or veto laws the king was making. If parliament opposed one of the laws, the king could not make it a law. Also, the king could no longer raise taxes without Parliament agreeing. Also, the Magna Carta allowed for accused criminals to state their case in front of a jury, or a group of men sworn to tell the truth, and the jury would decide if they were guilty. This meant that the king couldn't just execute his rivals or innocent people for no good reason. Basically, the Magna Carta limited the king's power and made the king be fair and just in his decisions.