The ancient document that established the principles of government by consent is the Magna Carta, signed in 1215. This charter was a response to King John of England's arbitrary rule and heavy taxation. It laid the groundwork for the idea that the monarchy's power could be limited by law and that certain rights must be safeguarded for the nobility and, by extension, future generations. The Magna Carta emphasized the principles of due process and fair trial and is often cited as a foundational document in the development of constitutional law and democracy, influencing various legal frameworks around the world.