What document marked the beginning of constitutional limitations on monarchs in England?

The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, is significant because it marked the beginning of constitutional limitations on the powers of the English monarchy. This historic document was created as a result of the barons' rebellion against King John, who had been imposing heavy taxes and exercising arbitrary power. The Magna Carta introduced the principle that everyone, including the monarch, is subject to the law. Key provisions included the right to a fair trial, protection against unlawful imprisonment, and the establishment of certain legal protections, which laid the groundwork for the development of constitutional law in England. Over time, the ideas and rights articulated in the Magna Carta became foundational to the evolution of democracy and legal rights, influencing subsequent constitutional documents, including the English Bill of Rights and other democratic texts globally.

In contrast, the Mayflower Compact was an agreement for self-governance among the Pilgrims in the New World, the Declaration of Independence announced the American colonies' separation from British rule, and the English Bill of Rights was adopted in 1689 and further limited the powers of the monarchy but was a result of earlier developments, including those set forth in the Magna Carta.