The official name of our constitutions is the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States, and is also often called the Fundamental Law or Magna Carta.

The first truly Mexican constitution is that of 1824, as it discards any type of foreign legislation and proclaims absolute sovereignty. However, prior to this, there were already various laws in existence, among them the Spanish Constitution of Cadiz in 1812, the ?feelings of the Nation? by Jose Maria Morelos, and the Constitutional Decree for liberty of Mexican American, or the Constitution of Apatzingan of 1814.

The Constitution of 1857 was the fundamental element in national defense against the French invasion and Emperor Maximiliano de Hasburgo. It was fully valid following the expulsion of foreigners and remained in effect until 1917.

In 1910, the armed Mexican Revolution began, based on the social, economic and political conditions that arose during the time of President Porfirio Diaz who remained in power for more than 30 years. This movement was precisely the context for the creation of the Constitution that governs Mexico through today.

Venustiano Carranza, as first leader of the constitutionalist Army, in charge of the executive branch, called congress together on 1916 in order to present a project to reform the constitution of 1857. The document went through tremendous modifications and additions to adjust to the new social reality of the country. On February 5 th, 1917, the current Magna Carta was presented at the theater of the Republic in Queretaro. This document was able to bring together the revolutionary ideals of the Mexican people. It included principles for social reforms and farmers. In addition, it was drawn up to govern all Mexicans without distinction to race, creed, or social or political condition, offering the liberty of thought and beliefs.

Author: Steve Schwab