Constitution of May 3, 1791

The Constitution of May 3, 1791, was Poland’s first modern constitution, aiming to reform and strengthen the government. It reduced the king’s powers, established better legal protections, and improved the government’s efficiency. The constitution sought to create a more democratic system by promoting equality among citizens and limiting the influence of the nobility. It was a significant step toward modern statehood, inspired by Enlightenment ideas, but faced opposition from conservative groups and neighboring countries. Despite its short life, it marked an important move toward modern governance and national sovereignty in Poland.