Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791

The Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791, was one of the world's first modern constitutions, designed to modernize and strengthen the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. It aimed to reduce corruption, limit the excesses of the nobility's privileges, and establish a more balanced government with an elected king and a functioning parliament (Sejm). It promoted civil rights, religious tolerance, and aimed to improve governance, ultimately trying to maintain independence amid external threats. Although short-lived due to political opposition and military pressures, it marked a significant step toward modern constitutional government and influenced future reforms in Poland and beyond.