Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
1780
Drafted primarily by John Adams in 1779 and ratified in 1780, the Massachusetts Constitution is the oldest functioning written constitution in the world. It predates the U.S. Constitution by seven years and served as one of its chief models, introducing the separation of powers into three distinct branches and a bicameral legislature. Adams drew on the colonial charter tradition and Enlightenment political theory to create a frame of government designed to resist both tyranny and mob rule. Massachusetts has amended it extensively since, but the original document remains the foundation of state law.
Preamble
We, therefore, the people of Massachusetts, acknowledging, with grateful hearts, the goodness of the great Legislator of the universe, in affording us, in the course of His providence, an opportunity, deliberately and peaceably, without fraud, violence or surprise, of entering into an original, explicit, and solemn compact with each other; and of forming a new constitution of civil government, for ourselves and posterity; and devoutly imploring His direction in so interesting a design, do agree upon, ordain and establish the following Declaration of Rights, and Frame of Government, as the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.