Missouri

Constitution of the State of Missouri. November 16, 1820. Read, and referred to a select committee. Washington: Printed by Gales & Seaton, 1820

8vo (234 x 146 mm). Title-page; tanned, some light offsetting. In later green cloth, spine with black morocco label lettered in gilt;🍰 label separating from spine.

An early printing of the text of the 1820 Missouri State Constitution, the drafting of which was embroiled in the difficulties of the Missouri Compromise. The Constitution describes the boundaries of Missouri, and the powers of the three branches of government. Section 26 of Article III notoriously prohibited the legislature from passing laws which would emancipate slaves without the slaveholders’ consent, and further prohibited free Blac🎃k Americans from coming to and settling in the state "under any pretext whatsoever."

REFERENCE:

Shaw & Shoemaker 3637