Constitution of 1791 Adopted

• The National Assembly in France drafts a constitution.
• The Constitution of 1791 is completed and proposed.
• The Constitution of 1791 is adopted by the National Assembly.
• France becomes a constitutional monarchy under the new constitution.

The Constitution of 1791 marked a crucial step in the French Revolution's attempt to institute a legal framework based on Enlightenment ideals. It was officially adopted by the National Constituent Assembly on 3 September 1791 and accepted by King Louis XVI shortly after. The document established France as a constitutional monarchy, delineating the separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

The legislative power was vested in a unicameral assembly known as the Legislative Assembly, which consisted of 745 deputies. These deputies were elected by "active citizens" (male citizens who paid a certain amount of taxes and were over 25 years old). This assembly held the authority to draft laws, approve budgets, and oversee executive actions, representing a significant shift from the absolute monarchy's centralized authority.

The executive power was bestowed upon the King, who remained the head of state. However, his powers were considerably limited compared to the pre-Revolution era. While the King retained the right to veto legislation, this veto was only suspensive (a law could still come into force if it was passed in subsequent legislative sessions). Additionally, the King commanded the army and had the responsibility to enforce laws, but he could not dissolve the Legislative Assembly or dismiss ministers without its approval.

Judiciary reform was another pivotal aspect of the Constitution of 1791. It aimed at a more equitable justice system, abolishing the parlements (regional courts) and replacing them with a streamlined system of courts. Judges were to be elected by "active citizens," ensuring that the judiciary was accountable to the populace rather than the monarchy. This move was aligned with Enlightenment thinkers' advocacy for checks and balances within government structures.

The Constitution also introduced significant administrative changes. France was divided into 83 départements, each administered by locally elected officials. This new system replaced the previous provinces, thereby reducing the influence of regional nobility and facilitating more centralized governance. This administrative restructuring was intended to promote uniformity and efficiency in government functions across the nation.

Despite its progressive elements, the Constitution of 1791 had notable limitations. It failed to address the economic dissatisfaction and social inequalities that had fueled the Revolution. The system of "active" and "passive" citizens excluded a large portion of the population (including women and the poorer class) from political participation. This restriction led to continued unrest and criticism from various revolutionary factions, who believed the Constitution did not go far enough in addressing the people's demands for broader democratic reforms. Nonetheless, the adoption of the Constitution of 1791 was a landmark event that illustrated the Revolution's complex and evolving nature.

• The Constitution of 1791 was the first written constitution in France, marking a significant departure from centuries of absolute monarchy.
• It established the 'Constitutional Monarchy,' meaning that the king's powers were limited by law and a new legislative body was created, known as the Legislative Assembly.
• Interestingly, the Constitution was drafted by the National Assembly, which formed after the Tennis Court Oath on 20 June 1789, where members vowed not to disband until a constitution was established.
• One of its key features was the separation of powers, dividing the government into the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches, a concept influencing future democratic governments.
• Despite its progressive ideals, the Constitution of 1791 was short-lived, as King Louis XVI and revolutionary leaders struggled to coexist, leading to its suspension in 1792.