The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, is a fundamental document that limited the powers of the English king. King John of England was forced to agree to the charter by a group of rebellious barons. The Magna Carta established the principle that everyone, including the king, was subject to the law. It laid the groundwork for many legal concepts that underpin modern democracy, including due process and the right to a fair trial. Although initially intended to address specific grievances, its lasting impact on the development of constitutional law has been significant throughout history.