The Magna Carta established the principle of the rule of law, asserting that everyone, including the king, is subject to the law. Signed in 1215 by King John of England due to pressure from rebellious barons, it aimed to limit the powers of the monarchy and guarantee certain rights to subjects. Key provisions included protection from unlawful imprisonment, access to swift justice, and limitations on taxation without representation. The Magna Carta laid the foundation for modern democracy and legal systems, profoundly influencing the development of constitutional law and civil rights in future societies.