Constitution of North Dakota
1889
North Dakota adopted its constitution in 1889 when it achieved statehood, entering the Union on November 2 of that year alongside South Dakota, Montana, and Washington in one of the largest single-day expansions of the United States. The constitution was drafted at a convention in Bismarck and reflects the agrarian and populist concerns of the Great Plains settlers who would come to define the state's political identity. North Dakota is notable for its strong tradition of direct democracy: the state has one of the most active initiative and referendum processes in the country, and citizens have used those tools to amend the constitution on numerous occasions. The original 1889 document remains in force today, substantially amended but structurally intact.
Preamble
We, the people of North Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of free government, do ordain and establish this constitution.
Article I — Declaration of Rights
All individuals are by nature equally free and independent and have certain inalienable rights, among which are those of enjoying and defending life and liberty; acquiring, possessing and protecting property and reputation; pursuing and obtaining safety and happiness; and to keep and bear arms for the defense of their person, family, property, and the state, and for lawful hunting, recreational, and other lawful purposes, which shall not be infringed.