The Significance of the Magna Carta

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
8 questions
~16 mins
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The Significance of the Magna Carta

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Introduction to the Magna Carta

The Magna Carta was a charter agreed to by King John of England in 1215. It is often seen as a symbol of limiting royal power and protecting rights.

The document was created due to widespread dissatisfaction with the king’s heavy-handed rule, high taxes, and arbitrary justice.

It was initially intended as a peace treaty between the king and rebellious barons, but it had lasting effects on English law and governance.

1.
Outline the main reasons why the Magna Carta was created in 1215. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the original purpose of the Magna Carta with its long-term significance. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
B

Immediate Effects of the Magna Carta

The Magna Carta limited some of the king’s powers, especially regarding taxation and justice.

It forced King John to accept certain legal protections for his barons and nobles.

However, many of its clauses were specific to the barons and did not apply to ordinary people.

1.
Explain the immediate effects of the Magna Carta on royal power. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Analyse how the Magna Carta affected the rights of the barons and nobles. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
C

Long-term Consequences of the Magna Carta

The Magna Carta’s ideas influenced the development of constitutional law in England.

It inspired later documents such as the English Bill of Rights and the development of Parliament.

Over time, it became a symbol of liberty and the rule of law, even though many of its clauses were ignored in later centuries.

1.
Explain how the Magna Carta influenced the development of constitutional law. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the importance of the Magna Carta in 1215 with its symbolic significance today. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
D

Legacy and Impact

The Magna Carta’s legacy includes influencing the development of legal rights and constitutional governance.

It helped establish the idea that rulers are not above the law.

Its principles continue to be referenced in legal and political debates today.

1.
Analyse the legacy of the Magna Carta in shaping modern ideas of law and government. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Write a short paragraph summarising why the Magna Carta is considered a significant document in British history.
[4 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet