A manuscript once considered an unofficial "copy" of the Magna Carta is now believed to be a genuine version and ''one of the world's most valuable documents'', according to UK academics. Harvard Law School paid $27.50 (then about £7) for it in 1946 and for years it has remained tucked away in its library, its true identity unknown. But two medieval history professors have concluded it is an extraordinarily rare and lost original Magna Carta from 1300, in the reign of King Edward I, that could be worth millions. ''This is a fantastic discovery," said Prof David Carpenter from King's College London, who began analysing it after seeing digitised images of it on the US university's website. "It is the last Magna Carta... [and it] deserves celebration, not as some mere copy, stained and faded, but as an original of one of the most significant documents in world constitutional history; a cornerstone of freedoms past, present and yet to be won." He said he was "absolutely astonished" that not only had he discovered this authentic version, but that, over the years, no-one seemed to know what they had and that it had been sold "for peanuts". According to Harvard's library accession register, the document catalogued as HLS MS 172 was acquired in 1946 and was described in an auction catalogue as a "copy made in 1327… somewhat rubbed and damp-stained". The Magna Carta is a charter first issued by King John in 1215 that guaranteed the liberties and rights of his subjects and also placed the Crown under the authority of the law. Considered a key step in the evolution of human rights against oppressive rulers, Magna Carta has influenced the framing of constitutions around the world. The document - which was circulated across the counties of England - was reissued after 1215 by successive kings through the years to 1300, meaning "there may have been 200 originals", said Prof Nicholas Vincent of the University of East Anglia, Norwich, who helped Prof Carpenter establish the Harvard document's authenticity and provenance. Today, 25 of these originals survive from the various editions between 1215 and 1300, most of which are in the UK. There are two more in Washington DC's National Archives, and one in Parliament House in Canberra, Australia. "It is an icon both of the Western political tradition and of constitutional law," said Prof Vincent. ''If you asked anybody what the most famous single document in the history of the world is, they would probably name Magna Carta." The professors, who spent a year researching Harvard's document, believe it is from the town of Appleby, Cumbria. They think the trail from Appleby to Harvard involves the Lowthers, a land-owning family who gave the Magna Carta to Thomas Clarkson, a leading abolitionist of the 1780s. Clarkson's estate passed through a series of heirs to the Maynard family, then at the end of 1945, AVM Forster Maynard sold it at auction at Sotheby's. A London bookseller paid £42 for the document, months before Harvard bought it for a fraction of that price. As for its value today, Prof Vincent said: "I would hesitate to suggest a figure, but the 1297 Magna Carta that sold at auction in New York in 2007 fetched $21m [about £10.5m at the time], so we're talking about a very large sum of money." Because HLS MS 172 is in places badly faded, the academics worked not from the original but from pictures obtained using ultraviolet light and spectral imaging. They discovered that the handwriting and dimensions were consistent with those of the six previously known 1300 originals. They also did a detailed check of the actual text. Because the wording of Magna Carta evolved over the years, the words and their order needed to be identical to that found in the other 1300 originals. It passed this test "with flying colours". The identity of the text was "the crucial proof", explained Prof Carpenter. Congratulating the academics for their discovery, Amanda Watson, Harvard Law School's assistant dean for library services, said this exemplified what happened when collections were opened to brilliant scholars. "Behind every scholarly revelation stands the essential work of librarians, who not only collect and preserve materials, but create pathways that otherwise would remain hidden," she said. The professors are hopeful Harvard's Magna Carta will soon be displayed to the public so its message and significance can be more widely known. Follow Norfolk news onBBC Sounds,Facebook,InstagramandX.
Magna Carta 'copy' bought for $28 now believed to be genuine version
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Harvard's 1946 Magna Carta Purchase Found to Be Genuine Original Document"
Bbc News
8.3
TruthLens AI Summary
A manuscript previously regarded as an unofficial copy of the Magna Carta has been re-evaluated by UK academics and is now believed to be a genuine original document, potentially one of the most valuable historical artifacts in existence. Harvard Law School originally purchased the manuscript for $27.50 in 1946, and it has remained largely overlooked in their library until recently. Two medieval history professors, David Carpenter and Nicholas Vincent, have conducted extensive research that led them to conclude that the document is an extraordinarily rare version of the Magna Carta from 1300, during the reign of King Edward I. Prof Carpenter expressed his astonishment at the discovery, emphasizing the document's importance as a cornerstone of constitutional history rather than a mere copy. He highlighted that this find deserves celebration, given its historical significance and the fact that it was sold for a fraction of its true worth.
The Magna Carta, first issued by King John in 1215, has been a pivotal document in the establishment of human rights and the limitation of governmental power. The professors believe that the manuscript, cataloged as HLS MS 172, likely originated from Appleby, Cumbria, and passed through various hands over the centuries, including abolitionist Thomas Clarkson. After a year of research, the academics validated the authenticity of the document through advanced imaging techniques that revealed consistent handwriting and text with known originals from 1300. Amanda Watson, assistant dean at Harvard Law School, praised the scholarly efforts that led to this revelation, underscoring the vital role of librarians in preserving and providing access to historical materials. The professors are optimistic that this significant piece of history will be displayed to the public, allowing for greater awareness of its enduring message and importance in the context of constitutional law.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The discovery of a manuscript once thought to be a mere copy of the Magna Carta has sparked significant interest, particularly within academic and historical circles. This revelation by UK academics, indicating that the document may be an original from the year 1300, raises questions about historical artifacts and their valuation.
Purpose Behind the Announcement
The primary intent behind this news appears to be the celebration and recognition of historical scholarship. By uncovering the true identity of the manuscript, the focus is shifted towards the importance of preserving and understanding historical documents. Additionally, it may serve to enhance the prestige of Harvard Law School’s library, showcasing it as a repository of significant cultural heritage.
Public Perception and Impact
This revelation is likely designed to instill a sense of awe and pride in historical achievements, particularly regarding the Magna Carta's role in shaping modern democracy and human rights. The narrative crafted by the professors emphasizes the document's value beyond its physical state, which could lead to increased public interest in history, law, and the humanities.
Hidden Agendas
While the article does not overtly suggest any concealed motives, the timing of the announcement could coincide with broader discussions in society about the importance of historical documents in contemporary governance and rights. It’s possible that there are undercurrents of promoting educational funding or heritage preservation initiatives that are not explicitly mentioned.
Manipulative Elements
The article does not appear to contain overtly manipulative language; however, the framing of the discovery as one that "deserves celebration" could be seen as an attempt to generate excitement and engagement. The use of phrases like "fantastic discovery" and "astonished" can evoke strong emotional responses, steering public sentiment towards appreciation of historical scholarship.
Authenticity of the News
The claims made in the article seem credible, given the involvement of respected academics and the detailed historical context provided. The assertion that the document is a rare original version adds weight to its authenticity. However, further verification from additional experts may be necessary to confirm the findings.
Connections to Other News
This story may resonate with other recent discussions about cultural heritage, historical preservation, and the valuation of artifacts. There is a trend in media focusing on the importance of historical documents in understanding societal evolution, which could create a narrative thread connecting various stories in the public discourse.
Sector Image and Reputation
The publication of this news reinforces the image of academic institutions as invaluable stewards of history and knowledge. By highlighting such discoveries, it positions universities not only as educational entities but also as crucial players in the preservation of cultural heritage.
Societal and Economic Implications
The newfound valuation of the manuscript could have implications for the art and antiquities market, potentially leading to increased interest and investment in historical documents. If authenticated, it could also trigger discussions about the funding and support for libraries and historical archives, influencing both public policy and private donations.
Support from Specific Communities
This news may resonate particularly with communities interested in history, law, and education. Academics, students of history, and cultural enthusiasts are likely to find significance in the findings, fostering a sense of community around shared interests in historical preservation.
Market Reactions
While the immediate impact on stock markets may be minimal, the broader implications for the art and antiques market could be noteworthy. Companies involved in historical artifact valuation, appraisal, or preservation might see increased interest or investment following this revelation.
Global Power Dynamics
In a broader context, the recognition of historical documents like the Magna Carta speaks to ongoing discussions about democracy and rights across the globe. The article does not directly relate to current geopolitical issues but serves as a reminder of the historical foundations that influence contemporary governance.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence was used in the writing of this article, as it appears to reflect traditional journalistic standards. However, AI models could potentially assist in the analysis of historical documents, and any digital records mentioned may have benefited from AI technologies in their preservation or digitization.
In conclusion, while this news article effectively highlights a significant historical discovery, its underlying motives may suggest a broader agenda of promoting historical awareness and academic prestige. The authenticity of the claims lends credibility to the discussion, and the potential cultural and economic implications warrant further observation.