Maryland Constitution of 1864

The Maryland Constitution of 1864 was adopted during the Civil War to modernize state governance and ensure loyalty to the Union. It established a more streamlined government, expanded voting rights, and abolished slavery in Maryland. The new constitution also created a more centralized administration, clarified the roles of elected officials, and set grounds for public education and better legal protections. Overall, it aimed to strengthen Maryland's government and align it with Unionist principles during a turbulent time, laying a foundation for future constitutional developments.