February 5th

On February 5, 1917, Mexico adopted its current constitution, known as the Mexican Constitution of 1917. This historic event emerged in the aftermath of the Mexican Revolution, a decade-long struggle characterized by widespread social unrest, armed conflict, and calls for political and social reform.

The Mexican Revolution, which began in 1910, aimed to address various grievances, including the concentration of wealth and power among a small elite, lack of political representation for the majority of the population, and exploitation of workers and peasants. The revolutionaries sought to create a more just and equitable society through land reform, labor rights, and political change.

As part of the revolutionary process, Mexico embarked on the task of drafting a new constitution that would reflect the aspirations and ideals of the revolutionary movement. The Constituent Congress convened in the city of Querétaro to deliberate and draft the new constitution.

The Mexican Constitution of 1917 was a groundbreaking document that included several progressive provisions aimed at addressing the social, economic, and political challenges facing the country. It emphasized land reform, seeking to address the issue of land concentration by redistributing land to peasants through the creation of ejidos, communal land holdings.

Furthermore, the constitution enshrined labor rights, recognizing the rights of workers to organize, strike, and collectively bargain. It aimed to improve working conditions and protect workers from exploitation by employers.

Another significant aspect of the Mexican Constitution of 1917 was its emphasis on secularism and the separation of church and state. The constitution sought to limit the political influence of the Catholic Church and establish a secular government that respected religious freedom while ensuring the autonomy of the state.

The adoption of the Mexican Constitution of 1917 marked a turning point in Mexican history, representing the culmination of the revolutionary process and the beginning of a new era of social, political, and economic reform. Today, February 5th is celebrated as Constitution Day in Mexico, commemorating the adoption of this landmark document that continues to shape the country's legal and political landscape.