The Texas Constitution of 1869 was the third constitution adopted by the state of Texas since it became a state in 1845. The previous two constitutions, adopted in 1845 and 1861, had both been largely ineffective in addressing the needs and concerns of the state and its citizens. The 1869 constitution was a response to the challenges and changes that the state had faced during the Civil War and Reconstruction period.
One of the major goals of the 1869 constitution was to reestablish the state's authority and sovereignty after the Civil War. The preamble of the constitution declares that the "natural right of self-government" had been "violently wrested" from the people of Texas during the war, and that the new constitution was being adopted "in order to establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity."
The 1869 constitution was also designed to address the social and economic issues that had been exacerbated by the war. It included provisions to protect the rights of freed slaves and ensure their equal treatment under the law, including the right to vote and hold public office. The constitution also established a public school system, recognizing the importance of education in the state's future development.
In addition to addressing social and economic issues, the 1869 constitution included numerous provisions related to the structure and powers of the state government. It established a bicameral legislature consisting of a Senate and a House of Representatives, with the power to levy taxes and regulate commerce. It also created a judiciary system, with the Supreme Court serving as the highest court in the state.
One of the unique features of the 1869 constitution was its emphasis on decentralization and local control. It granted significant powers to county governments, allowing them to regulate their own affairs and manage their own finances. This decentralization of power was seen as a way to ensure that the state government was responsive to the needs and concerns of its citizens.
Overall, the Texas Constitution of 1869 was a significant document in the state's history. It marked a new beginning for Texas after the tumultuous years of the Civil War and Reconstruction, and established a framework for the state's future development. Its provisions on social and economic issues, as well as its emphasis on decentralization and local control, continue to shape the state's political and legal landscape to this day.
Constitution of 1869
What did the Texas Constitution of 1869 do to meet the demands of reconstruction? The House of Representatives was set at ninety members and the Senate at thirty. All elections were held at the county seat and had to continue through four consecutive days. It was never amended and was in effect for only a few years before Texas joined the United States. Walker, "Intent of the Framers in the Education Provisions of the Texas Constitution of 1876 ", 10 Rev. Curzon, "Antenuptial Agreements: Perspectives on the Texas Constitution and the Community Property System", 56 Tex. The convicted remains subject to trial, indictment and punishment according to law.
4.8: Constitution of 1869
This Constitution is notable mainly for creating Texas' free public school system and school funding system. All judicial offices were appointive. The preface of the bill of rights of the new document reflected the sentiments of its makers in its condemnation of nullification and secession. What is the Texas Constitution? It also created the state's unusual double supreme court system. Representatives served two-year terms while Senators were elected for four years. The Constitution of the State of Texas is the document that establishes the structure and function of the government of the U. The programs, implemented by greater taxation, drew heavy criticism from many citizens, and though it may have laid some of the foundations for a strong educational system, as well as strengthening the branches of state government, the Constitution of 1869 sparked much controversy among political and social factions in Texas.
What is the Texas Constitution of 1869?
Many felt that it was one of the longest and most unsatisfactory of Texas constitutions. No Sir; give us the ballot and give it to us for all time, and then if you can outrun us in the race of life, all is well. Permission for the legislature to call a new constitutional convention was withheld, but the amendment procedure was unchanged. Text of all amendments added to the Texas Constitution since 1876. The programs, implemented by greater taxation, drew heavy criticism from many citizens, and though it may have laid some of the foundations for a strong educational system, as well as strengthening the branches of state government, the Constitution of 1869 sparked much controversy among political and social factions in Texas. Judgement in impeachment cases does not extend beyond removal from office and disqualification from public office. Tarlton Law Library, Jamail Center for Legal Research.
The Constitutions of Texas
Finally, the Secretary of State who has the constitutional duty of keeping the Seal of the State is appointed by the Governor, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. What differentiates Texas from the other states is its unique past as a state. However, the act had different provisions that disgraced many citizens, leading to the establishment of the next show. It stated that Texas was an independent and free state that was only subject to the action of America and that all free individuals have similar rights. It became longer and more detailed, although it was still nowhere near the length it would eventually become. In Print Print versions of the Texas Constitution may be found in A Compilation and Analysis of the 1998 Texas Constitution and the Original 1876 Text, located in the library at call number KFT1601 1876.
