Question

Explain the main features of French constitution of 1791.

Answer 1

HINT: The main objective of the French Constitution was establishing sovereignty and a well written document as it was a product of the collapsing of Monarchy i.e. states based on a system of Governance headed by a king or a queen.

Complete step by step answer:
The Fourth Republic came to an end, on 1st June 1958. The law-making power was handed over to Gen. De Gaulle by the National Assembly. A small cabinet was set up to draft the constitution which is one of the key functions assigned to the De Gaulle government. The committee submitted the text of the new constitution to the people for their approval and received support in majority, at a referendum held on September 29th 1958.
Few main features of French constitution are:-
A)France became a constitutional monarchy, as kings and nobles were stripped of their powers.
B)Feudal system was abolished
C)Powers were distributed among different sections of government- the Judiciary, the executive and the Legislature.
D)The basic democratic principles have been incorporated in the constitution which deals with the principles of “ Liberty,Equality and Fraternity” along with the ideals of Universal adult suffrage.
E)Taxes collected by the Church were abolished and lands owned by the Church were confiscated.
F)The constitution of 1791 vested power to make laws in the National Assembly,which was elected i.e. citizens voted for a group of electors who in turn chose the assembly.

NOTE: Drawing the contemporary relevance of the French constitution, now it combines elements of both Parliamentary and Presidential systems. President is both head of government and head of state who possess important judicial and state powers. Whereas, parliament had restricted powers as it is not a supreme law making authority.