King John and the Magna Carta

Background. . . John’s older brother Richard inherited the throne in 1189 Richard spent most of his 10 year reign away from England fighting in tournaments, crusades, waging war in Europe Richard taxed his subjects heavily But they loved him b/c he was a hero

King John Richard died in 1199, John became King Ruled very differently than his brother Stayed at home tending to day to day business However, John continued his brother’s heavy taxation B/C John lacked his brothers image and charisma, his people hated him b/c of his constant demands for money

John and the French King Early in his reign, John tried to overtake land from the French King He won some battles, but ultimately lost. In 1214, John decided to try again. He asked his Barons all over England to supply soldiers and money to fight the war. Many refused

John’s response. . . John attacked the castles of the rebellious barons He fought the war in France, same result The Barons sensed John was weak The Barons met with John and demanded change Both sides began to assemble armies

The Battled Ensued. . . John openly refused to negotiate the terms of his power The rebel Barons overtook London They fortified their own castles and were ready for war John had his own forces, but was unsure if he could win.

Runnymede Both sides met here in June of 1215, to talk and try to pursuade the neutrals. Most of John’s forces were scattered throughout England. The entre rebel force was there to meet John. John gave in and agreed to the Rebel demands

Magna Carta Revolutionary document that secured the law is higher than the King Major reforms Religious freedom Trial by jury Freedom from taxation w/o cause Due process This document was the first step toward representative Government.