Human rights: Magna Carta
On the 15 of June, 1215, one of the most important human rights associated documents of England was sealed. The Magna Carter played a major role in the advancement of human rights in England, and around the world. The events leading up to and after the signing of the Magna Carta show how the people of England rose up and retaliated against King John, influencing one of the greatest changes in the history of monarchy.
King John, son of King Henry II of England and Eleanor of Aquitaine, ascended to the throne in 1199 where he ruled over England until his death in 1216. He is known as ‘one of the worst kings’ history has ever seen. Traditionally, a good king was one that lead militaries well and have strategic planning skills. However, King John did not possess these qualities, which subsequently lead to the loss of respect towards him from both nobles and peasants.
Religion was an important part of day to day life in King John’s era, to both peasants and nobles. The Roman Catholic church taught people that they would only get into Heaven if they deemed them good enough, those cast out would be sent to Hell. After the death of the Archbishop of Canterbury in 1205, Hubert Walter, King John wanted to elect his own bishop. However, Pope Innocent did not agree. He wanted his own man, Stephen Langton to be the Archbishop. King John, infuriated with the Pope’s decision, refused to let Stephen into the country and seized the lands of Canterbury Cathedral and collected it’s income.John felt that he,as king,was allowed to do whatever he wishes and should be allowed to elect his own Archbishop. He refused to give in to the Pope, as it would make him look weak.
This marked the beginning of a dispute that broke down the communities of England. In March 1208, Pope Innocent placed England under an interdict and later, excommunicated King John. All church services were halted.Churches were closed down, marriages, burials and christenings could not take place. This caused
King John, son of King Henry II of England and Eleanor of Aquitaine, ascended to the throne in 1199 where he ruled over England until his death in 1216. He is known as ‘one of the worst kings’ history has ever seen. Traditionally, a good king was one that lead militaries well and have strategic planning skills. However, King John did not possess these qualities, which subsequently lead to the loss of respect towards him from both nobles and peasants.
Religion was an important part of day to day life in King John’s era, to both peasants and nobles. The Roman Catholic church taught people that they would only get into Heaven if they deemed them good enough, those cast out would be sent to Hell. After the death of the Archbishop of Canterbury in 1205, Hubert Walter, King John wanted to elect his own bishop. However, Pope Innocent did not agree. He wanted his own man, Stephen Langton to be the Archbishop. King John, infuriated with the Pope’s decision, refused to let Stephen into the country and seized the lands of Canterbury Cathedral and collected it’s income.John felt that he,as king,was allowed to do whatever he wishes and should be allowed to elect his own Archbishop. He refused to give in to the Pope, as it would make him look weak.
This marked the beginning of a dispute that broke down the communities of England. In March 1208, Pope Innocent placed England under an interdict and later, excommunicated King John. All church services were halted.Churches were closed down, marriages, burials and christenings could not take place. This caused