Medieval experts reveal how they found Harvard’s Magna Carta

The National Archives recently hosted an evening that left medieval experts and history enthusiasts in awe. The event was centered around the discovery of an extremely rare original copy of the Magna Carta, a document that has been studied and revered for centuries. The revelation was made by a team of experts led by Prof David Carpenter of King’s College London, who had been conducting an investigation into the document’s authenticity.

The Magna Carta, also known as the Great Charter, is a medieval document that was first issued in 1215 by King John of England. It is considered to be one of the most important legal documents in history, as it established the principle that everyone, including the king, is subject to the law. The original document was written on parchment and sealed with the king’s seal, making it a symbol of royal authority and a crucial step towards the development of modern democracy.

For decades, it was believed that there were only four original copies of the Magna Carta in existence. However, the recent discovery has added a fifth original to the list, making it an even more remarkable find. The document in question was thought to be a mere copy and had been held at Harvard Law School since the 1940s. It was only when Prof Carpenter and his team examined the document closely that they realized its true significance.

The evening at the National Archives was a celebration of this groundbreaking discovery. Prof Carpenter, along with his team, shared their findings and the process of their investigation with the audience. The atmosphere was electric as the audience listened intently to every detail, and the excitement was palpable when the team revealed their conclusive evidence that the document was, in fact, an original copy of the Magna Carta.

The discovery has been hailed as a significant contribution to the study of medieval history and has shed new light on the origins of the Magna Carta. It is believed that this newly discovered original was created around the same time as the other four copies, making it just as valuable and historically significant. The fact that it has been held at Harvard Law School for so many years without anyone realizing its true value is a testament to the meticulous work of Prof Carpenter and his team.

The National Archives, which is responsible for preserving and providing access to the UK government’s historical records, was the perfect venue for this event. The organization has been instrumental in safeguarding important documents like the Magna Carta and making them available for public viewing. The evening was a perfect example of how the National Archives continues to play a crucial role in uncovering and preserving our history.

The discovery of this fifth original copy of the Magna Carta has also sparked a renewed interest in medieval history. It has reminded us of the importance of preserving and studying our past, as it holds the key to understanding our present and shaping our future. The National Archives, along with Prof Carpenter and his team, have given us a valuable gift by bringing this document to light and allowing us to delve deeper into our history.

The event at the National Archives was a reminder that there is still so much to discover and learn about our past. It was a celebration of the dedication and hard work of experts like Prof Carpenter, who continue to unravel the mysteries of history. The discovery of this rare original copy of the Magna Carta will undoubtedly inspire future generations to continue the quest for knowledge and uncover more hidden treasures from our past.

In conclusion, the National Archives’ evening with the medieval experts was a truly remarkable and unforgettable event. It has added a new chapter to the history of the Magna Carta and has given us a deeper understanding of its significance. The discovery of this rare original copy is a testament to the importance of preserving our history and the tireless efforts of those who work towards that goal. It is a momentous occasion that will be remembered for years to come.