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Runnymede may derive from the Anglo-Saxon word “runinge”, meaning to take council and “moed” meaning meadow. Some believe that King Alfred held meetings at Runnymede in ancient times. Travel by boat along the Thames was the standard means of safe transport and the choice of venue would have added additional gravitas to the unfolding drama of Magna Carta, not lost on the recalcitrant King John.

Visit Runnymede: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-runnymede

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Lord Phillips

Lord Phillips

Master of the Rolls (2000-2005)

The early settlers in the United States took with them copies of the Magna Carta. One undertaking given by King John in that Charter was as follows: No freeman shall be arrested or imprisoned or disseised or outlawed or exiled or in...

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