On February 5, Mexico commemorates the promulgation of the Constitution Politica de los Estados Unidos Mexicanos of 1917, a document that defines the rights, obligations, and organization of the country. This day is now an obligatory rest day, typically falling on the first available Monday of February due to its midweek position.
Interesting Facts About the Constitution
The 5th of February is the official date for commemoration, leading to a “megapuente” or extended weekend. This is because the previous Friday, students in basic education do not attend classes due to meetings held by the Consejo Técnico Escolar, attended by teachers. Here are some intriguing facts about the Constitution:
- It was the first constitution in history to include social rights.
- The original document is preserved under strict conditions in the Archivo General de la Nación, housed in a special box made from acid-free materials.
- Comprises 136 articles, divided into nine titles and 19 transitional articles.
- Signed by 209 deputies.
- The first amendment was made to Article 73 during Álvaro Obregón’s presidency in May 1921.
- Legend has it that the Mexican Constitution was signed with the same pen used for the Plan de Guadalupe in 1913.
- Article 73, dealing with Congress’s powers, has been amended the most throughout history.
- Translated into over 23 indigenous languages.
- Articles were handwritten by Perfecto Arvizu Acaute, the official scribe of Congress.
- Constitutional debates began on December 1, 1916, in the Teatro Iturbide, Querétaro, and concluded on January 31, 1917.
- Names of states and constituent deputies from 1917 are inscribed on the stage of the Teatro de la República.
- It has accumulated more than 20 “Fe de erratas” or corrections over time.
Who is this relevant to?
The Constitution of 1917 is fundamental for understanding Mexico’s legal and political framework. It was born out of the Revolution Mexicana, integrating social, civil, and labor rights into its articles. This document has been amended over 200 times since its enactment, reflecting Mexico’s evolving societal needs and values.
Why is it significant?
This constitution marked a turning point in Mexico’s history, embedding social rights into the nation’s core legal framework. It has been amended extensively to adapt to changing societal demands, demonstrating Mexico’s commitment to evolving governance. The constitution’s translation into numerous indigenous languages highlights its inclusivity and respect for Mexico’s rich cultural diversity.
How does it impact others?
The Constitution of 1917 has shaped Mexico’s legal and political landscape, influencing countless laws and policies. Its emphasis on social rights has contributed to the country’s progress in areas such as education, healthcare, and labor protections. The document’s adaptability through numerous amendments ensures its relevance, guiding Mexico’s journey towards a more equitable society.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Constitution Day of 1917? It’s a national holiday in Mexico commemorating the promulgation of the Constitution Politica de los Estados Unidos Mexicanos of 1917, which defines the country’s rights, obligations, and organization.
- Why is February 5 an obligatory rest day? Although February 5 falls midweek, it’s moved to the first available Monday to create a longer weekend. This is due to educational schedules, where students don’t attend classes on the Friday before.
- What makes this constitution unique? It was the first in history to include social rights and has been amended over 200 times, reflecting Mexico’s commitment to evolving governance.
- How is the constitution preserved? The original document is carefully preserved in acid-free materials within the Archivo General de la Nación.
- How many languages has the constitution been translated into? It has been translated into over 23 indigenous languages, showcasing Mexico’s respect for its cultural diversity.
