Constitution of Massachusetts (1780)
The oldest functioning constitution in continuous force, drafted by John Adams.
Overview
Ratified in 1780 and still in force, the Massachusetts Constitution is the oldest functioning written constitution in the world, predating the federal one. Drafted principally by John Adams, it pioneered the structure later mirrored at the federal level, a strong executive with veto, bicameral legislature, and independent judiciary with tenure during good behavior. Its declaration of rights opens with the famous line that all men are born free and equal, cited in the 1781 freedom suits that helped end slavery in Massachusetts. It remains the working constitution of the commonwealth, amended by initiative petition since 1918.
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