On February 15, 1876, Texas adopted its current state Constitution – a pivotal document that continues to govern the Lone Star State today. This marked the sixth revision since Texas independence in 1836, emerging during the critical post-Reconstruction era.The Constitution established fundamental changes in Texas governance: limiting governmental powers, decentralizing public education, and instituting biennial legislative sessions. Significantly, it created the University of Texas and formalized Texas A&M University, establishing the million-acre Permanent University Fund.
Approved by a decisive vote of 136,606 to 56,652, this historic document reflects our unique heritage, incorporating influences from Spanish and Mexican law alongside distinctly Texan frontier values. Though amended 530 times, it remains the foundational framework of Texas law.