Lecture Notes: The Wyoming Constitution

Introduction

• Overview of the founding of the Wyoming Constitution.
• Comparison between Wyoming and US Constitutions.
• Visual references:
  • Favorite fishing spot at Mirror Lake.
  • Governor at Jubilee/Frontier Days parade.
  • The Simpson Brothers (notable figures in Wyoming politics).

Structure and Content

• Article 1: Statement of Rights (unlike the US Constitution where Article 1 is about Congress).
• The Wyoming Constitution is structured in articles like the US Constitution.
• Key Similarities:
  • Separation of powers (executive, legislative, judicial branches).
  • Bicameral legislature.
  • System of checks and balances.
• Key Differences:
  • Article 1 focuses on rights rather than governmental powers.

Borrowed Ideas

• Wyoming Constitution largely borrows ideas from the US Constitution and other states.
• Reflects Wyoming's unique culture:
  • Libertarianism: Emphasis on individual rights.
  • Egalitarianism: Focus on equality, not hierarchy.

Drafting of the Constitution

• Written in September 1889 by 49 delegates in Cheyenne.
  • Delegates included ranchers, college graduates, and lawyers.
  • Not primarily politicians, which influenced the borrowing of ideas.
• Drafted in 25 days to align with their personal commitments.

Emphasis on Equality

• Equality as a fundamental right:
  • Article 1, Section 2: Equality in life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness for all.
  • Article 1, Section 3: Political rights without discrimination by race, color, sex, etc.
• Article 6, Section 1: Grants equal rights to vote and hold office, regardless of sex.
• Wyoming was the first state to provide full equal rights for women.

Conclusion

• The Wyoming Constitution is progressive for its time, especially in terms of equality.
• Will be revisited later in the course to compare and contrast with the federal government.
• The famous statue at the Capitol in Cheyenne is noted as a symbol of Wyoming's commitment to equality.