The historical significance of the Magna Carta, signed in 1215, lies in its role as a foundational document for the development of modern legal systems and constitutional governance in England and beyond. Originally intended to appease rebellious barons and limit the power of King John, it established the principle that everyone, including the monarchy, is subject to the law. Key tenets such as due process and the right to a fair trial emerged from the Magna Carta, influencing later constitutional frameworks, including the United States Constitution. Its legacy represents the ongoing struggle for civil liberties and the rule of law, emphasizing the importance of individual rights in governance.