December constitution

Austrian history

Also known as: Fundamental Laws

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June 25, 2026

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The December constitution, adopted in 1867, was a significant part of Austrian history, establishing the framework for the non-Hungarian lands of the Habsburg Empire. This constitution, also known as the Fundamental Laws, granted equal rights to all nationalities within the state, including the preservation and cultivation of their languages. It also recognized the authority of parliament and guaranteed freedoms of press, speech, and assembly. However, suffrage was restricted, and the monarch retained the power to rule without parliament if necessary. This constitutional arrangement lasted until 1918.1

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Austria
Ausgleich of 1867
…and became known as the December constitution, lasted until 1918. These laws granted equality before the law and freedom of press, speech, and assembly; they also protected the interests of the various nationalities, stating that
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…and became known as the December constitution, lasted until 1918. These laws granted equality before the law and freedom of press, speech, and assembly; they also protected the interests of the various nationalities, stating that
Read More