Magna Carta originated as what was essentially a failed peace treaty between King John of England and his barons in 1215. Centuries later it transformed into a document held by the Founding Fathers as a foundational cornerstone of citizens’ rights in this country.

Thomas J. McSweeney, a law professor at William and Mary Law School, explores the document’s evolution beginning in the 13th century through its role in 17th- and 18th-century revolutions. Along the way, he surveys some of the major historic debates about Magna Carta: whether it should be thought of as a statement of high-minded principle or of baronial self-interest; when and how political thinkers came to view it as fundamental law; and if it privileged private property over common rights. McSweeney concludes with a look at whether Magna Carta was an effective model for the guarantee of rights in a republic.

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