What was the Magna Carta?

The Magna Carta is fundamentally a charter of liberties that was signed by King John of England in 1215. It is one of the most important legal documents in the history of democracy and established the principle that everyone, including the king, is subject to the law. The Magna Carta addressed various grievances that the barons had against King John, particularly regarding taxation and arbitrary justice. Its significance lies in its establishment of certain legal rights and the idea that even monarchs must adhere to established laws, paving the way for modern concepts of governance and individual rights.

In contrast, the other options refer to different historical documents or contexts. The declaration of independence relates to the American colonies' statement to break away from British rule, while the bill that limits presidential powers pertains to the U.S. legislative framework. The U.S. Constitution is a foundational document of United States government, distinct from the historic Magna Carta. Understanding the context and implications of the Magna Carta offers insight into the evolution of democracy and law.