Features September 2015
On the special significance of Magna Carta for Americans.

The 1215 Magna Carta. Photo: Matt Cardy/Getty Images
Government under the law—responsible power—is a key element of liberty and a vital support of freedom. For those of us, of whatever background and of all backgrounds, who live in the Anglosphere, it is the foundation stone of a long process that contributed greatly to the distinctive strengths of the Anglo-American political systems. The idea, and crucially the practice, that those who make and execute the laws are also subject to them is vital to these strengths and to our history. It is also a legacy that contrasts markedly with the situation in many other states, not least as their governmental practice scarcely matches...