Historical Background
At the end of the 18th century, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth was in deep crisis. The liberum veto, weak central authority, and interference from neighboring powers had brought the state to the brink of collapse.
A group of reformers, led by King Stanisław August Poniatowski, decided to implement profound constitutional changes. The Great Sejm sessions (1788-1792) became the arena for the struggle over the new shape of the state.
Main Provisions
The May 3rd Constitution introduced a number of innovative solutions:
- Abolition of liberum veto — decisions were to be made by majority vote
- Hereditary throne — after Stanisław August’s death, the crown was to pass to the Saxon dynasty
- Separation of powers — following American and French models
- Rights for townspeople — admission to offices and ennoblement
- Protection of peasants — “the protection of law and national government” over the peasant class
Reaction and Fall
The adoption of the Constitution provoked opposition from part of the magnates, who formed the Targowica Confederation and called Russia for help. In 1792, Russian troops entered Poland, and a year later the second partition occurred.
Despite its short period of validity, the May 3rd Constitution remained a symbol of Polish aspirations for modernity and sovereignty. Its anniversary is today one of the most important national holidays.
Legacy
The May 3rd Constitution inspired subsequent generations of Poles fighting for independence. Its ideas — national sovereignty, equality before the law, separation of powers — are today the foundation of the Polish political system.