The Magna Carta was a charter agreed in 1215 that limited the powers of King John and protected the rights of the barons and other free men. The barons were powerful landowning nobles who were unhappy with King John's heavy taxes and military failures. Their opposition was crucial in forcing the king to sign the Magna Carta, which aimed to limit royal authority and safeguard baron rights.

Source A: A letter from a baron to another noble

'We, the barons, have grown tired of the king's unjust demands and his failure to govern fairly. We seek to restore our rights and ensure the king respects our privileges.' Provenance: A letter written by Baron William de Warenne, 1215.

The immediate cause of the Magna Carta was King John's heavy taxation to fund wars and his failure in military campaigns, which angered the barons. Additionally, his arbitrary justice and refusal to consult barons on decisions increased their discontent. The barons' growing power and their desire to limit royal authority also contributed to the crisis.

Source B: A chronicler's account

'The king's unjust taxes and his failure in battle caused widespread unrest among the barons, who demanded their rights be protected.' Provenance: Chronicler Roger of Wendover, 1216.

The Magna Carta had lasting effects on the balance of power between the monarchy and the barons. It established the principle that the king was not above the law and laid the groundwork for future constitutional developments. Although initially a failure, it became a symbol of rights and limited royal authority. Over time, it influenced the development of legal rights for all people in England.

Source C: A legal historian's view

'The Magna Carta was the beginning of the limitation of royal power and the recognition of legal rights for the people.' Provenance: Historian Dr. Emily Carter, 2000.