Constitution of the State of Colorado
1876
Colorado's constitution was drafted by a convention in Denver in 1875 and 1876 and ratified by territorial voters in July 1876; Congress admitted Colorado to the Union on August 1, 1876, the centennial year of American independence, earning it the nickname the Centennial State. The delegates drew heavily on the constitutions of other western states while also reflecting the specific concerns of a mining and ranching territory: the document addresses water rights with unusual specificity, establishing the prior appropriation doctrine that remains the foundation of western water law today. Colorado was also an early adopter of direct democracy, adding initiative and referendum provisions in 1910, and the constitution has been substantially amended through citizen initiatives ever since.
Preamble
We, the people of Colorado, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, in order to form a more independent and perfect government; establish justice; insure tranquility; provide for the common defense; promote the general welfare and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity; do ordain and establish this constitution for the "State of Colorado".
Bill of Rights
In order to assert our rights, acknowledge our duties, and proclaim the principles upon which our government is founded, we declare: All political power is vested in and derived from the people; all government, of right, originates from the people, is founded upon their will only, and is instituted solely for the good of the whole. The people of this state have the sole and exclusive right of governing themselves, as a free, sovereign and independent state; and to alter and abolish their constitution and form of government whenever they may deem it necessary to their safety and happiness, provided, such change be not repugnant to the constitution of the United States. All persons have certain natural, essential and inalienable rights, among which may be reckoned the right of enjoying and defending their lives and liberties; of acquiring, possessing and protecting property; and of seeking and obtaining their safety and happiness.