Constitution of 1857

The Constitution of 1857 was a foundational law for Mexico, established during the period known as La Reforma. This era aimed to modernize the country by abolishing colonial remnants, separating church and state, and promoting economic development. The constitution prohibited slavery and protected freedoms of speech and press. It also restricted corporations, including the church, from owning property and aimed to establish Mexico as a representative democracy. While it increased the power of the central executive, it faced opposition from religious and military factions, leading to civil war. This constitution remained in effect until 1917. The Constitution of 1917, which replaced it, incorporated many of the 1857 charter's principles while also introducing significant social and economic reforms stemming from the Mexican Revolution.12