[Mike0]

Dr. Gutzman:

In lecture #2, “Sam Adams,” you state that Massachusetts possesses the world’s oldest written constitution, having been enacted in 1780. However I was under the impression that Virginia enjoyed this honor, with its constitution having been written in 1776. Is my prior thinking incorrect?

Many thanks!
-Mike Tilden
Firestone, CO

[gutzmank]

The Virginia Constitution of 1776 was amended in 1830 and replaced in 1851.

[Mike0]

Thanks, Professor. Much obliged.

[gutzmank]

You’re welcome.

[johnwinters91]

Professor,

Could you please explain why the VA instrument has a superior claim to that over the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut (1639), the Mayflower Compact (1620), or even the New Hampshire Constitution (January 1776)?

Thank you very much!!

-John Winters
Ithaca, NY

[gutzmank]

Q: Why isn’t Sir Thomas Dale America’s oldest deputy-governor?
A: He’s dead.

[johnwinters91]

Professor,

I don’t understand.

Also, I wasn’t trying to debate or instigate. Obviously you’re way more knowledgeable than any of us here, which is why we’re here. Just trying to figure out why.

Thanks again

[gutzmank]

The Massachusetts Constitution of 1780 is the oldest written constitution in the world. All older ones are defunct.

[Author]

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