Magna Carta Trust

2025 marks the 800th anniversary of the sealing of the 1225 version of Magna Carta. This is an important moment to mark the impact and legacy of Magna Carta.

The 1215 Magna Carta is rightly commemorated as the original Great Charter and the 800th commemorations in 2015 were extensive and hugely successful. Yet, in one sense, that 1215 document was a failure – it was repudiated by King John within weeks of being agreed, the then Pope (Innocent III) annulled it, and it failed to bring peace to the country.

Instead, Magna Carta’s renewal in 1216 and 1217, as a modified document issued in the name of the young King Henry III, provided the basis for a legal document that could positively impact contemporary events and help to bring peace.  The 1225 reissue was the first time that King Henry III was old enough to make a personal commitment to rule in accordance with the rules set out in Magna Carta. This became the definitive version of Magna Carta, and it was issued by Henry III in his own name on 11 February 1225.

Since 1225 Magna Carta has proved resilient and inspirational to future generations as the basis for the rule of law, for example:

·       Petition of Rights 1628 and the Habeas Corpus Act of 1679

·       Concept of due process in Anglo-American jurisprudence

·      Constitution of the USA 1789 and Bill of Rights 1791

The Magna Carta Trust therefore seeks to promote and encourage events and activities over the next few years under the theme of renewal and resilience. We welcome the opportunity to partner with organisations to:

·       Promote awareness and understanding of the historical importance of Magna Carta

·       Encourage public dialogue on the importance of the rule of law, human rights, democracy and access to justice

·      Consider the changing ways in which values and norms adapt to modern times

Our ambition is for a series of events and commemorative activities across the UK and internationally, including those aimed at young people. These may include debates, talks, webinars, conferences, commemorative occasions, scholarships, exhibitions, tours and more.

If your organisation is interested in being involved or would like to find out more, please contact Mark Gill (mark@magnacartatrust.org)