What was the significance of the Magna Carta?

The significance of the Magna Carta lies in its role in limiting the powers of the king and establishing legal rights for subjects, which was a foundational moment in the development of constitutional governance. Signed in 1215 by King John of England after a revolt by his barons, the Magna Carta introduced the principle that everyone, including the king, was subject to the law.

This document guaranteed certain rights, such as the right to a fair trial and protection from arbitrary imprisonment, which set a precedent for future legal frameworks. It is often regarded as a cornerstone of modern democracy because it laid the groundwork for the ideas of individual rights and government accountability. Over time, the Magna Carta has influenced many constitutional documents around the world, including the United States Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The other options do not capture the essence of the Magna Carta's contribution to political thought and legal rights. The Church's supremacy, trade promotion, and unification of kingdoms were not the primary outcomes of this important historical document.