The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, was significant in limiting the powers of the English monarchy and establishing the principle that everyone, including the king, was subject to the law. This historic document arose from tensions between King John and his barons, who sought to secure their rights against arbitrary royal abuse. Key provisions included the protection of church rights, fair taxation, and the right to a fair trial. The Magna Carta has been regarded as a foundational document for constitutional governance, influencing many later democratic principles, including the concept of due process and the idea of checks and balances within government systems worldwide.