What is the Pennsylvania Constitution?
The Constitution of Pennsylvania is the supreme law within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. All acts of the General Assembly, the governor, and each governmental agency are subordinate to it. Since 1776, Pennsylvania’s Constitution has undergone five versions.
What was Pennsylvania’s first constitution called?
The Pennsylvania Constitution of 1776
The Pennsylvania Constitution of 1776 (ratified September 28, 1776) was the state’s first constitution following their declaration of independence and has been described as the most democratic in America; although it notably based rights in “men” not in “persons,” as contemporaneous constitutions did in neighboring …
Who wrote the Pennsylvania Constitution?
Deliberations began one week later under the chairmanship of Benjamin Franklin. While it appears that George Bryan, James Cannon, and Benjamin Franklin were the principal authors of the new constitution, others such as George Clymer, Timothy Matlack and even Thomas Paine might have been involved in its creation.
How was Pennsylvania Constitution different?
It created a unicameral legislature—having only one body—a feature unique among American states.
How many times has the PA constitution been amended?
The current constitution has been amended about 49 times. The most recent amendments to the Pennsylvania Constitution, of which there were three, were approved by voters in 2021.
What rights do the Pennsylvania State constitution protect?
That all men are born equally free and independent, and have certain natural, inherent and inalienable rights, amongst which are, the enjoying and defending life and liberty, acquiring, possessing and protecting property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety.
Who are considered to be PA’s founding fathers?
Pennsylvania in its early history had many prominent founding fathers including namesake William Penn, Dr. Benjamin Rush and of course statesman, printer and scientist Benjamin Franklin. These individuals were entrepreneurs and leaders in government and set the path to where we are today. Their resumes were impressive.
Which state constitutions were most democratic?
The Pennsylvania Constitution was probably the most democratic. It provided suffrage for all freemen over the age of 21 and emphasized the legislative branch over the executive and judicial.
Was Pennsylvania spelled wrong in the Constitution?
Pennsylvania is spelled incorrectly On the part of the Constitution where the signers affixed their names, Pennsylvania is spelled “Pensylvania,” with only one “n.” It’s not really an error, however. It was commonly spelled that way. In fact, it’s spelled that way on the Liberty Bell.
When was the last time the PA constitution was rewritten?
1968
Pennsylvania’s first constitution of its statehood was ratified in 1776. Four versions followed, one in 1790, 1838, 1874, and the latest in 1968. The 1968 version was heavily based on the previous constitution and is sometimes considered as a revision of the 1874 constitution.
Which state has the oldest constitution still in use?
The oldest state constitution still in effect is that of Massachusetts, which took effect in 1780.
What are my rights as a citizen in Pennsylvania?
§ 1. All men are born equally free and independent, and have certain inherent and indefeasible rights, among which are those of enjoying and defending life and liberty, of acquiring, possessing and protecting property and reputation, and of pursuing their own happiness.
What is the Constitution of Pennsylvania?
The Constitution of Pennsylvania is the supreme law within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. All acts of the General Assembly, the governor, and each governmental agency are subordinate to it. Since 1776, Pennsylvania’s Constitution has undergone five versions.
What is the supreme law in Pennsylvania?
The Constitution of Pennsylvania is the supreme law within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. All acts of the General Assembly, the governor, and each governmental agency are subordinate to it.
What are the Commonwealth laws in the state of Pennsylvania?
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA § 1. Inherent rights of mankind. § 2. Political powers. § 3. Religious freedom. § 4. Religion. § 5. Elections. § 6. Trial by jury. § 7.
Is Article V of the Pennsylvania Constitution of Pennsylvania repealed?
Repeals. Article V of the Constitution of Pennsylvania is repealed in its entirety, and those provisions of Schedules No. 1 and No. 2 are repealed to the extent they are inconsistent with this article and attached schedule. Explanatory Note. Proposal No.7 added present Article V.