Features of the Constitution of France drafted in 1791
The Constitution of France drafted in 1791 was a landmark document that laid the foundation for the French Revolution and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy. Here are some key features of the constitution:
- Declaration of Rights of Man and Citizen: The constitution included a Declaration of Rights of Man and Citizen, which outlined the fundamental rights and freedoms of the French citizens. It emphasized principles such as liberty, equality, and fraternity.
- Separation of Powers: The constitution established a system of separation of powers, dividing the government into three branches - the legislative, executive, and judiciary. This was aimed at preventing the concentration of power in a single authority.
- Constitutional Monarchy: The constitution established France as a constitutional monarchy, with a monarch as the head of state but limited by a constitution. The king had to work with the legislative assembly and abide by the laws of the land.
- Legislative Assembly: The constitution created a legislative assembly with the power to make laws and oversee the government. Members of the assembly were elected by active citizens, who had to meet certain property requirements.
- Civil Constitution of the Clergy: The constitution also included the Civil Constitution of the Clergy, which reformed the Catholic Church in France. It placed the clergy under the control of the state and required them to take an oath of loyalty to the constitution.
- Local Government: The constitution also reorganized the local government system in France, establishing departments and municipalities with elected officials. This aimed to decentralize power and give more autonomy to local communities.
Overall, the Constitution of France drafted in 1791 was a significant step towards establishing a more democratic and egalitarian society in France during the turbulent period of the French Revolution.