Constitution of Mexico
The Constitution of Mexico, formally known as the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States, is the current and supreme law of the United Mexican States. Adopted on February 5, 1917, following the Mexican Revolution, this document replaced the earlier Constitution of 1857, which had been in force since the Reform War.
Historical Context
- The Mexican Revolution (1910-1920) was a major catalyst for the creation of the 1917 Constitution. It was a time of political upheaval, social reform, and economic change, with various factions fighting for different visions of Mexico's future.
- The new constitution was influenced by the demands of various revolutionary groups, including agrarian reformers, labor unions, and political reformists, who sought to address the inequalities and injustices of the Porfirian era.
Key Features
- Land Reform: Article 27 of the Constitution of Mexico established the principle that the nation has original ownership over the lands and waters within its territory, leading to significant land distribution efforts to peasants and rural workers.
- Labor Rights: The constitution included pioneering labor rights, such as the right to organize, collective bargaining, an eight-hour workday, fair wages, and vacation time, which were quite progressive for the time.
- Education: Article 3 mandated free, secular, and compulsory primary education, reflecting the revolutionary goal of enlightenment and modernization.
- Separation of Church and State: The constitution solidified the separation of church and state, restricting the power of the Roman Catholic Church in Mexican politics, which had been a significant issue during the Reform War.
- National Sovereignty: It emphasized national sovereignty, stating that all natural resources belonged to the nation, which was a response to foreign exploitation during the Porfiriato.
Amendments and Changes
- Over the years, the Constitution of Mexico has been amended numerous times. Notable changes include:
- 1992: Amendments to Article 27 ended the practice of expropriating private property for land redistribution, marking a shift in land policy.
- 2001: Reforms to address indigenous rights, recognizing Mexico as a pluricultural nation.
- 2011: Introduction of the possibility of re-election for some political offices, which was previously prohibited.
Significance
- The Constitution of Mexico is significant for its progressive stance on social issues, particularly labor rights, which influenced constitutional developments in other countries.
- It has been a model for constitutionalism in Latin America, reflecting the region's struggle for social justice, national sovereignty, and democratic governance.
Sources:
Related Topics