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How Did The Magna Carta Influence Australia

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Magna Carta

The Magna Carta, also known as the 'Great Charter ' was a significant and influential document sealed by the King of England, King John in 1215. This year marks the 800th anniversary celebration since the Magna Carta was signed in Runnymede, Surrey on June 15, 1215. This essay will discuss the historical background of the Magna Carta. It will also discuss the modifications made over time, focusing on the most significant years of the Manga Carta. Most importantly what relevance the Magna Carta has with the current legal system in Australia, more specifically the 'Rule of Law '.

During 1914, a year before the official sealing of the Magna Carta, King John was still in reign. A group of barons in England rebelled against him. King Johns political and military failures caused a significant tax increase which were strongly disagreed upon by the barons and the people of Britain (Magna Carta …show more content…

The Magna Carta has influenced countries world wide, including Australia and our Australian Constitution. The Magna Carta today is the fundamental basis of our rights. Nobody, no matter their race, religion, gender, or rank in society is above the law, everyone will receive the same punishment in regards to any crime made. Today Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory is legislated to take in chapter 29 of the Magna Carta. Whereas, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory all use the remaining 3 clauses within the Magna Carta (What is the Magna Carta? - THE MAGNA CARTA COMMITTEE, no date).

The Magna Carta has lived for over 800 years. From what started out as a simple set of complaints to King John from the barons into and international symbol of liberty, this document has given us rights. No one is ever above the law and everyone is equal in the eyes of the law. Without the Magna Carta we might not have the rights we so much value today (The British Library, 2015).

Written by Jacinta

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