Question

What are the four key principles of the Texas Constitution of 1876? Why has this Constitution lasted so long in Texas?

Answer 1

The four key principles of Texas Constitution of 1876 are:

1. Popular sovereignty – This is the constitutional principle of self-government. It is the belief that government is controlled by the people and hence government has its own set of constraints as well as limitations.
2. Social contract – This principle is based on the thought that government started or originated from consent of the public and the objective was to ensure that common interests and needs of public are addressed.
3. Limited government – This principle restricts governmental authority on one hand and defines and outlines personal rights on the other hand.
4. Separation of powers – This principle is based on division of authority. The principle divides authority among the three branches of the government – legislative, executive and judiciary.

The reason why this constitution lasted so long in Texas is because it has ensured that political power is inherent in the people. The constitution of Texas was instituted for the benefit of the people and this remains the core principle of the constitution. The constitution still acts as a check on the state government power and combined with the above mentioned reasons it has ensured the longevity of Texas Constitution of 1876.