What historic document, signed in 1215, is seen as a fundamental limitation of royal authority?

The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, is recognized as a foundational document in the development of constitutional law and the limitation of monarchical powers. It established the principle that everyone, including the king, is subject to the law. This landmark agreement was a response to the heavy-handed rule of King John of England, who imposed unfair taxes and treated his subjects arbitrarily.

By placing limits on the authority of the crown, the Magna Carta introduced ideas such as due process and the right to a fair trial, which have influenced many later democratic documents and concepts of governance. Its lasting legacy can be seen in modern legal systems that emphasize individual rights and the rule of law, making it a significant turning point in the shift from absolute monarchy to a system of governance that is accountable to its citizens.