King John faced several problems that upset the barons of England, including quarrels with the Pope over the church, two military defeats in France, and raising taxes to pay for war. In 1215, the barons rebelled and forced King John to agree to the Magna Carta, establishing for the first time that the king would rule according to law and respect the basic rights of the nobility, such as not imprisoning them without cause. The Magna Carta set an important precedent as the first time an English king was made to obey a set of rules limiting his power.

1. King John and the Magna Carta

2. Could the rich control the king? God fearing A good judge of character A good soldier Around the picture below, you can read some of the qualities which medieval people expected their king to have! Which three are the most important for a medieval king? Rich – but not greedy! Fit and strong Inspiring! Hardworking Brave Wise Firm – but fair!