(June 15, 1215), known as the “cornerstone of English liberty,” was a constitutional charter signed by King John I of England (December 24, 1167–October 18, 1216) in the meadow of Runnymeade, under pressure from the English barons. This was the first time the absolute power of a king was limited by law, guaranteeing certain rights to his subjects. Included in the provisions were:
John, by the grace of God, king of England, Lord of Ireland, duke of Normandy and Aquitaine, count of Anjou, to the archbishops, bishops, abbots, earls, barons, justiciars, foresters, sheriffs, reeves, servants, and all bailiffs and his faithful people greeting.
Know that by the inspiration of God and for the good of our soul and those of all our predecessors and of our heirs, the honor of God and the exaltation of holy church, and the improvements of our kingdom, by the advice of our venerable fathers.2
Clause 39. No freeman shall be taken, or imprisoned, or outlawed, or exiled, or in any way harmed, nor will we go upon him nor will we send upon him, except by legal judgement of his peers or by the law of the land.
Clause 40. To none will we sell, to none deny or delay, right or justice.3
The king himself ought not to be under a man but under God and under the law, because the law makes the king … for there is no king where will governs and not law. …
Know ye that we, in the presence of God, and for the salvation of our souls, and the souls of all our ancestors and heirs, and unto the honor of God and the advancement of Holy Church … have in the first place granted to God, and by this our present charter confirmed for us and our heirs forever.4