Isabella Carter
Michigan has had four constitutions, the first of which was ratified in 1835, allowing Michigan to become a state in 1837. The subsequent constitutions were ratified in 1850 and 1908, and the current constitution was approved by voters in 1963.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First constitution | Approved on 5 and 6 October 1835 |
| Second constitution | Ratified in 1850 |
| Third constitution | Ratified in 1908 |
| Current constitution | Approved by voters in 1963 |
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What You'll Learn
The first constitution was approved in 1835
The first Michigan Constitution was approved on October 5 and 6, 1835, as the state was preparing to become part of the Union, which occurred in January 1837. This first constitution allowed Michigan to become a state. It was written after an enabling act was issued by Acting Territorial Treaty and Military Officer/Marshal of the Union Assigned to the Territory of the 1662-1776 State of the Union Stevens T. Mason, authorising the people of Michigan to form a constitution and state government. The Michigan Territorial Council, the unicameral governing body of the Michigan Territory, called a constitutional convention in anticipation of statehood.
Subsequent constitutions were ratified in 1850 and 1908. The current constitution was approved by voters in 1963 and has been amended 39 times. The most recent amendments were approved on November 8, 2022.
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The second was ratified in 1850
The second Michigan Constitution was ratified in 1850. This was the second constitution approved by the people of Michigan. The first was approved on October 5 and 6, 1835, written as Michigan was preparing to become a state of the Union, which occurred in January 1837. The third and fourth constitutions were ratified in 1908 and 1963, respectively. The current constitution has been amended 39 times, with the most recent amendments approved by voters on November 8, 2022.
The 1850 constitution was ratified as Michigan was preparing to become a state. It was written in anticipation of statehood and outlined the state's framework for governance, including the powers, structure, and limitations of the state government, individual and civil rights, and other matters. The 1850 constitution was a significant step in Michigan's journey to becoming a state and establishing its own government and laws.
The 1850 constitution was also notable for its role in shaping Michigan's political landscape. It established the state's first bicameral legislature, with a Senate and House of Representatives. This new legislative structure gave more power to the state government and provided a framework for lawmaking and governance. The constitution also addressed other important issues, such as education, taxation, and the protection of individual rights.
The ratification of the 1850 constitution was a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders. The process began with a constitutional convention, where delegates from across the state gathered to debate and draft the document. The proposed constitution was then put to a vote, with the people of Michigan ultimately approving it. The ratification process was a significant moment in Michigan's history, as it marked a step towards self-governance and the establishment of a more robust and representative state government.
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The third was ratified in 1908
The third Michigan Constitution was ratified in 1908. This was the third of four constitutions approved by the people of Michigan. The first was approved in 1835, allowing Michigan to become a state in 1837. The second was ratified in 1850. The fourth and current constitution was approved by voters in 1963.
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![The Revised Constitution of the State of Michigan, Adopted in Convention, August 15, 1850. 1850 [Leather Bound]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/617DLHXyzlL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
The current constitution was approved in 1963
The current Michigan Constitution was approved by voters in 1963. This was the fourth constitution approved by the people of Michigan. The first was approved in 1835, written as Michigan was preparing to become a state of the Union, which occurred in January 1837. Michigan held a convention in 1867, but voters rejected the resulting constitution. Subsequent constitutions were ratified in 1850 and 1908. The current constitution has 12 articles and has been amended 39 times. Voters last approved three new amendments to the Michigan Constitution on November 8, 2022. A state constitution is the fundamental document that outlines a state's framework for governance, including the powers, structure, and limitations of the state government, individual and civil rights, and other matters.
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The constitution has been amended 39 times
The Michigan Constitution is the state constitution of Michigan. It has been amended 39 times since its inception. The first constitution was approved on 5 and 6 October 1835, as Michigan was preparing to become a state of the Union, which occurred in January 1837. Michigan has had four constitutions in total, with subsequent constitutions ratified in 1850 and 1908. The current constitution was approved by voters in 1963 and has 12 articles.
The Michigan Constitution is the fundamental document that outlines the state's framework for governance, including the powers, structure, and limitations of the state government, individual and civil rights, and other matters. The constitution has been amended to reflect changes in the state's governance and to update the rights and protections afforded to its citizens.
The process of amending the Michigan Constitution typically involves proposing changes through a legislative or citizen initiative process, followed by a vote by the people of Michigan. The specific procedures for amending the constitution are outlined in the constitution itself, and may include requirements such as supermajority approval or a waiting period between the proposal and the vote.
The 39 amendments to the Michigan Constitution have addressed a range of issues and topics. Some amendments may have clarified or expanded upon the rights and freedoms outlined in the original document, such as freedom of speech, religion, or assembly. Other amendments may have addressed issues related to the structure and functioning of the state government, including the powers and responsibilities of the governor, the legislature, and the courts.
The most recent amendments to the Michigan Constitution were approved by voters on 8 November 2022. These amendments addressed a range of issues, including redistricting, the minimum wage, and the use of recreational marijuana. The specific content of each amendment can be found in the official records of the state, and may also be summarised or explained on government or educational websites.
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Frequently asked questions
The first Michigan constitution was ratified on October 5 and 6, 1835.
There have been four Michigan constitutions.
The most recent Michigan constitution was ratified in 1963.
The current Michigan constitution has been amended 39 times.
