What is the Constitution of 1791 – The Constitution of 1791 marked a turning point in French history. It was drafted by the National Constituent Assembly after the fall of the Ancien Régime and came into effect on September 14, 1791. Its preamble included the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (1789), embedding principles of liberty, equality, and sovereignty.
Key Features
- Government System: Constitutional monarchy with King Louis XVI as head of state.
- Legislative Assembly: Unicameral body with 745 members, elected indirectly by “active citizens” (men who paid a minimum tax).
- Royal Power: The king had a suspensive veto, meaning he could delay laws but not permanently block them.
- Civil Rights: Abolished feudal privileges, hereditary nobility, and unequal taxation. Guaranteed freedom of speech, press, religion, and property rights.
How It Worked
- Voting Rights: Only “active citizens” (about two-thirds of adult men) could vote, excluding women and the poorest men.
- Checks on Power: The king’s veto could be overridden by three consecutive legislatures.
- Church and State: Nationalized church property and reduced clerical privileges.
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Comparison with Absolute Monarchy
| Feature | Ancien Régime | Constitution of 1791 |
|---|---|---|
| Head of State | King with absolute power | King with limited constitutional power |
| Legislature | None | Unicameral Legislative Assembly |
| Rights | Privileges for nobility & clergy | Equality before law, civil rights |
| Taxes | Unequal, exempting nobility/clergy | Equal taxation based on means |
FAQs : What is the Constitution of 1791
Why was the Constitution of 1791 important?
: It was France’s first attempt to limit royal power and establish popular sovereignty.
Did it abolish monarchy?
No, it kept the monarchy but restricted it under constitutional law.
How long did it last?
Less than a year. It collapsed in 1792 when the monarchy was abolished and the First French Republic was declared.
Who could vote under this constitution?
Only “active citizens” (tax-paying men), excluding women and poorer men.