Constitution of New Mexico
1912
New Mexico adopted its constitution in 1912 upon achieving statehood, becoming the 47th state in the Union. The constitution was drafted by a convention in 1910 and ratified by voters before Congress approved New Mexico's admission. It established a three-branch government with strong protections for the rights of Spanish-speaking citizens, reflecting the territory's deep Hispanic heritage. The document has been amended hundreds of times since statehood, but the original framework and its bilingual legacy remain foundational to New Mexico governance.
Preamble
We, the people of New Mexico, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty, in order to secure the advantages of a state government, do ordain and establish this constitution.
Article II — Bill of Rights
All persons are born equally free, and have certain natural, inherent and inalienable rights, among which are the rights of enjoying and defending life and liberty, of acquiring, possessing and protecting property, and of seeking and obtaining safety and happiness.