Cnnstitutinn nf tl n itat? of Caltfnnria 
PROCLAMATION TO THE PEOPLE OF CALIFORNIA. 
The delegates of the people, assembled in Convention, have formed a Con¬ 
stitution, which is now presented for your ratification. The time and manner 
of voting on this Constitution, and of holding the first general election, are 
clearly set forth in the schedule. The whole subject is, therefore, left for 
your unbiassed and deliberate consideration. 
The Prefect (or person exercising the functions of that office) of each dis¬ 
trict, will designate the places for opening the polls, and give due notice of the 
election, in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and schedule. 
The people are now called upon to form a government for themselves, and 
to designate such officers as they desire, to make and execute the laws. That 
their choice may be wisely made, and that the government so organized may 
secure the permanent welfare and happiness of the people of the new State, 
is the sincere and earnest wish of the present Executive, who, if the Consti¬ 
tution be ratified, will, with pleasure, surrender his powers to whomsoever 
the people may designate as his successor. 
Given at Monterey, California, this 12th day of October, A. D., 1849. 
(Signed) B. RILEY, 
Brevet Brig. General, IT. S. A*, and Governor of California. 
(Official) H. W. HALLECK, 
Brevet Captain and Secretary of State. 
We, the People of California, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom , in 
order to secure its blessings, do establish this Constitution: 
ARTICLE I. 
DECLARATION OF RIGHTS. 
Sec. 1 . All men are by nature free and independent, and have certain in¬ 
alienable rights, among which are those of enjoying and defending life and 
liberty, acquiring, possessing, and protecting property, and pursuing and ob¬ 
taining safety and happiness. 
Sec. 2. All political power is inherent in the people. Government is insti¬ 
tuted for the protection, security, and benefit of the people; and they have 
the right to alter or reform the same, whenever the public good may require it. 
Sec. 3. The right of trial by jury shall be secured to all, and remain invio- 
