Connecticut | The end of church-run states in America

Connecticut

A Constitution of Civil Government, for the People of the State of Connecticut, Framed by a Convention of their Delegates, and Submitted to the People, for their Consideration and Adoption, according to the Resolve of the General Assembly, passed on the second Thursday of May, A.D. 1818. Hartford: Printed by William S. Marsh, [1818]

8vo (214 x 120 mm). Minor browning, scattered foxing and staining, title with chips to upper margin, an early ownership signature trimmed, and small repair, closed marginal tear to first text leaf. Modern half calf and marbled paper-covered boards, gilt-lettered morocco label to spine.

The first constitution of the state of Connecticut.

In 1638, the Congregationalists broke away from the Massachusetts colony, forming the Connecticut colony. Inspired by a sermon that Thomas Hooker delivered, the Fundamental Orders were written by the Connecticut Court, and formed a constitution of sorts, outlining voting rights, the court system, and branches of government. In 1662, this was usurped by the establishment of the Connecticut charter, which was the result of King Charles II granting governmental authority to the colony. The charter remained in place until 1818, when Connecticut drafted its first state constitution, present here. 

"Not until 1818 did Connecticut decide to adopt a constitution to replace the royal Charter of 1662. The final draft represented a moderately liberal advance over former governmental practices. All Christian sects were put on an equal basis thus ending Congregational dominance of the state government" (Streeter).

The last of the New England states to adopt the First Amendment, and separate church from state. 

REFERENCE

Shaw and Shoemaker 43702; Streeter 730