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Maryland’s third constitution was very short-lived (1864-1867) as it was written to address specific issues (likes and dislikes) arising from the War Between the States. It had only narrowly passed a majority and was then significantly rewritten after the war’s conclusion.
Preamble to the Constitution
“We, the People of the State of Maryland, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty, and taking into our serious consideration the best means of establishing a good Constitution in this State for the sure foundation and more permanent security thereof, declare:”
Numbers
- 4 – Number of Constitutions
- 1867 – Year Current Constitution Ratified
Online References
Books
The Maryland State Constitution: A Reference Guide by Dan Friedman
In its history, Maryland has had four constitutions. Each was adopted by a constitutional convention that was, at least in some regard, not permitted under the previous form of government. The first Maryland Constitution was adopted in 1776 by a self-proclaimed convention that was also the de facto government of the state. The second constitution was adopted in 1851 principally to reapportion the state legislature. In 1864, the third constitution was adopted and was concerned primarily with the issues of the Civil War–emancipation and preservation of the Union. The fourth constitution was adopted in 1867, soon after the Civil War and the changes made served largely to repudiate the 1864 constitution. The 1867 constitution continues in force but has been significantly amended particularly in response to the defeated constitutional convention of 1967. This work covers this history and analyzes each provision of the Maryland Constitution. [excerpted from the publisher's description]
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Other resources for state-level constitutions
