Texas State and Local Government - Constitutions

Texas State and Local Government

Constitutions

The First Constitution - After independence from Mexico was written in 1836 for the Republic of Texas. Reacted to policies experienced by the government of Mexico. Which introduced separation of church and state; forbidding clergymen of any faith from holding office. Antislavery policies were changed in the old Mexican government , forbidding the masters from releasing any slaves without the consent of the Republic's congress. taking into account the abuse Mexican President Santa Anna suffered. Texas limited their terms to three years, without the possibility of being re-elected. A unitary government was established, not allowing provisions for other states.

Constitution of 1845- Nine years later another constitution was introduced. Admitting Texas's admission to the United States. Spanish political cultural was incorporated. Later being adopted by other states. It excused homesteader from foreclosure, protecting a wife's property rights, and provided for community property. Making for property to be equally possessed by the husband and wife. A two third vote was required in the Texas house to establish, and thus making bank corporations illegal altogether. Governors served a two year term, and legislative sessions were conveyed once every two years.

Constitution of 1861- The same as that of 1845, besides the fact Texas had become one of the Confederate states, being at war with the Union. Raising its debt, and not allowing slaves to be free.

Constitution of 1866- Following after the Civil War the Constitution of 1866 can into being . Hoping that in would satisfy the Unionists and allow readmission of President Andrew Johnson's Reconstruction program. That would nullify secession, do away with slavery, and take away Confederate war debts. On the basis of its own terms a civilian government was elected and functioned for several years regardless to the interruptions from the Freedman's Bureau. Reconstruction Act has the authority a passed by the Radical Republicans in Congress, the military removed civilian elected authorities and restored military rule.

Constitution of 1869- With a majority of whites banned from the elections or boycotting them, voter chose members of the constitutional convention in 1868. Producing documents that gave center stage to and power to the governor, prolonged the chief executive term to four years. allowed the governor to select major state officers, including judges. Provided once a year legislative sessions. Weakening controlled local government, and centered the public school systems. Showing little fear of the centralized government power becoming the hallmark of Texas. Being formally approved in 1868. It has been regarded as the most corrupt and abusive constitution in the state's history. Large contributions were given under the leadership of Republican Governor E. J. Davis towards the interest of the railroads, taxes excelled at an alarming rate, to pay for public programs . Landowners refused to pay these high property taxes. Texans were not willing to pay these unreasonable fees, which would make for a extreme amount of debt. Law and order fell. Which led the state to fall prey