British Citizenship Test

The Magna Carta is known for protecting which group's rights?

1. The common people

2. The nobility

3. The clergy

4. The monarchy

The correct answer is: The nobility

The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, is primarily known for protecting the rights of the nobility, specifically the barons of England, against the arbitrary authority of King John. This foundational document established the principle that everyone, including the king, is subject to the law, thus ensuring certain legal rights for the nobility. It was a critical turning point that limited royal power and laid the groundwork for the development of constitutional law in the UK. While the Magna Carta included provisions that later would influence wider rights, its initial focus was to address grievances held by the barons regarding heavy taxation and abuses of power by the monarchy. The charter introduced ideas such as due process and the right to a fair trial, which later extended to other groups over time. However, at its inception, its main aim was to serve the interests of the nobility rather than those of the common people or other groups.