Constitution of 1917

Definition

The Constitution of 1917 is the fundamental legal document that emerged from the Mexican Revolution, establishing a series of progressive reforms aimed at addressing social, economic, and political issues in Mexico. It is significant for incorporating rights such as land reform, labor rights, and public education, reflecting the revolutionary ideals of justice and equality. This constitution laid the foundation for modern Mexico and sought to limit the power of the Church and foreign interests in the country.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Constitution of 1917 was officially promulgated on February 5, 1917, marking a significant turning point in Mexican history as it established a new legal framework post-revolution.
2. It included a series of articles that focused on social justice, such as land distribution and labor rights, reflecting the revolutionary goals of addressing inequality.
3. One of its most notable features was the secularization of education and government, reducing the influence of the Catholic Church in public affairs.
4. The Constitution of 1917 served as a model for other Latin American countries by promoting progressive reforms and democratic governance.
5. Despite its advancements, many provisions of the Constitution faced resistance and required decades for full implementation, leading to ongoing struggles for social justice in Mexico.

Review Questions

• How did the Constitution of 1917 address social inequalities that contributed to the Mexican Revolution?
  • The Constitution of 1917 directly addressed social inequalities by implementing land reforms that aimed to redistribute land to peasant farmers, which was one of the main grievances leading to the Mexican Revolution. It also established labor rights that empowered workers, promoting fair wages and safe working conditions. By incorporating these elements into the legal framework, the Constitution sought to create a more equitable society and rectify injustices that had long been present in Mexico.
• Evaluate the significance of Article 123 in shaping labor relations in Mexico after the Constitution of 1917.
  • Article 123 was significant as it formally recognized workers' rights and established labor laws that provided protections for employees. It allowed workers to organize into unions, go on strike, and demanded fair compensation for their labor. This article not only empowered the working class but also paved the way for future labor movements in Mexico, helping to create a legal foundation for workers' rights that would influence labor relations for generations.
• Critically analyze how the implementation of the Constitution of 1917 has influenced contemporary Mexican society and governance.
  • The implementation of the Constitution of 1917 has had a lasting impact on contemporary Mexican society by establishing principles of social justice and democratic governance that continue to shape politics today. While many reforms outlined in the constitution faced challenges in enforcement, they laid the groundwork for ongoing struggles for human rights, social equality, and democratic participation. The constitutional framework continues to be referenced in current debates about land reform, labor rights, and governance issues, demonstrating its enduring relevance in addressing modern challenges faced by Mexican society.

Related terms

Mexican Revolution:

A major armed struggle that took place from 1910 to 1920, which resulted in significant social and political changes in Mexico.

Land Reform:

Policies enacted to redistribute land from large landowners to peasant farmers, aiming to address inequality and promote agricultural productivity.

Article 123:

A specific article in the Constitution of 1917 that outlines workers' rights, including the right to organize, strike, and receive fair wages.