What historical document is known for limiting a king's power?

Prepare for your Advanced World History Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Ensure your success on the exam!

The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, is a foundational document in the history of democracy that specifically aimed to limit the powers of the monarchy in England. It was created as a result of the tensions between King John and a group of rebellious barons who were dissatisfied with his rule and the heavy taxation they endured. By establishing the principle that everyone, including the king, was subject to the law, the Magna Carta introduced the concept of due process and the idea that the monarch's authority was not absolute.

The document laid down important legal principles, such as the right to a fair trial and protection against arbitrary imprisonment, thus paving the way for subsequent legal and constitutional developments. Its influence extended far beyond England, inspiring other documents that advocated for the limitation of government power and greater individual rights, such as the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

In contrast, the other options present are significant in their own right but do not specifically focus on limiting monarchical power in the same foundational manner as the Magna Carta. The Constitution establishes the framework for the government and delineates the powers and rights within the structure of American democracy, while the Bill of Rights outlines the rights of individuals against the government. The Declaration of Independence, on the other hand,

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