The first page of the original democratic version of Minnesota’s constitution. Minnesota originally had 2 constitutions, one drafted by democrats and one by republicans. They were very similar in nature but had some differences. You can find out more from the MN Historical Society.^[1]

You learned about the constitution of the United States earlier in this course. In Unit 5 you will be learning about both state government and local government. Minnesota’s constitution was first adopted on October 13, 1857 and we continue to follow it today. In this unit you will examine the similarities and differences between Minnesota’s government and the U.S. government. You will also learn about local government and learn about the local government(s) in your own home town.^[2]