1811 (Limitations of the 1807 Constitution under Christophe): The Council of State acknowledged that the Constitution of February 17, 1807, was created durin…
1811 (Limitations of the 1807 Constitution under Christophe): The Council of State acknowledged that the Constitution of February 17, 1807, was created during a period of “civil contention” when the state lacked a permanent social compact. While the representatives recognized its “numerous imperfections” and informality, they argued it was the only mode of government suited to the “tempests then hovering over its infancy.” The Council noted that although the 1807 document was sufficient for securing the rights of the people in “deplorable times,” it was never intended to be the final form of governance. This reflection served as the legal justification for transitioning to a more robust monarchical system. The shift was framed as a move from a temporary crisis-management framework to a permanent national foundation.