2.1 The Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, particularly in Europe, the concept of public service was largely shaped by the feudal system. Lords and nobles were responsible for protecting their vassals and managing the lands they owned. While this was a form of public service, it was often limited to the upper classes and was more about maintaining power than serving the broader community.  

A significant turning point in the history of public service during this period was the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215 in England. The Magna Carta, also known as the Great Charter, was signed by King John of England. King John was compelled to sign this document by a group of rebellious barons who were dissatisfied with his heavy-handed rule and excessive taxation. The barons, who were powerful landowners, gathered their forces and confronted the king at Runnymede, forcing him to agree to their demands to avoid a full-scale rebellion.

The Magna Carta established the principle that the king and his government were not above the law. It introduced the idea that rulers had a duty to serve the people and respect their rights. By limiting the absolute power of the monarchy and ensuring accountability, the Magna Carta laid the groundwork for modern democratic governance and public service.  

Despite the promise of the Magna Carta, the opposite of public service continued to be prevalent, as many rulers and leaders remained focused on maintaining their own power and wealth. However, the Magna Carta’s influence persisted, gradually inspiring further developments in the accountability and responsibility of leaders to their people. This document is often seen as a foundational moment in the development of constitutional governance, where the power of rulers is checked by the law, ensuring that public service is aligned more closely with the needs and rights of the people.