Constitution of 1791

The Constitution of 1791 was a landmark document in Polish history, establishing the first modern written constitution in Europe. It transformed the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth into a constitutional monarchy, blending Polish traditions with Enlightenment ideals. Key reforms included the abolition of the liberum veto, which had paralyzed the government, and the establishment of ministerial responsibility to the Sejm (parliament). The constitution also granted more political rights to burghers and aimed to improve the status of peasants. Despite its progressive nature, the constitution was opposed by conservative factions and ultimately unacceptable to Russia and Prussia, who feared a strengthened Poland. This opposition led to the formation of the Confederation of Targowica and subsequent Russian invasion, ultimately contributing to the partitions of Poland.123