Ohio Constitution of 1851
 | The source document of this text is not known. Please see this document's talk page for details for verification. "Source" means a location at which other users can find a copy of this work. Ideally this will be a scanned copy of the original that can be uploaded to Wikimedia Commons and proofread. If not, it is preferably a URL; if one is not available, please explain on the talk page. |
 | This work is incomplete. If you'd like to help expand it, see the help pages and the style guide, or leave a comment on the talk page. |
Preamble[edit]
We, the people of the State of Ohio, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and promote our common welfare, do establish this Constitution.
Article I: Bill of Rights[edit]
Section 1: Inalienable Rights[edit]
All men are, by nature, free and independent, and have certain inalienable rights, among which are those of enjoying and defending life and liberty, acquiring, possessing, and protecting property, and seeking and obtaining happiness and safety.
Section 2: Right to Alter, Reform, or Abolish Government, and Repeal Special Privileges[edit]
All political Power is inherent in the people. Government is instituted for their equal protection and benefit, and they have the right to alter, reform, or abolish the same whenever they may deem it necessary; and no special privileges or immunities shall ever be granted, that may not be altered, revoked, or repealed by the General Assembly.
Section 3: Right to Assemble[edit]
The people have the right to assemble together, in a peaceable manner, to consult for the common good; to instruct their representatives; and to petition the General Assembly for the redress of grievances.
Section 4: Bearing Arms; Standing Armies; Military Power[edit]
The people have the right to bear arms for their defense and security; but standing armies, in time of peace, are dangerous to liberty, and shall not be kept up; and the military shall be in strict subordination to civil power.
Section 5: Trial by Jury[edit]
The right of trial by jury shall be inviolate, except that, in civil cases, laws may be passed to authorize rendering of a verdict by the concurrence of not less than three-fourths of the jury. lmk-1912
Section 6: Slavery and Involuntary Servitude[edit]
There shall be no slavery in this state; nor involuntary servitude, unless for the punishment of crime.