of the government. Criticisms were made of the aristocratic character of the Senate, of the independent Executive, and his salary, of the courts, until finally in 1786 an armed revolt known as Shays's Rebellion broke out, threatening the very existence of the new government. This uprising was suppressed, however, and as time went on and the workings of the government under this Constitution found to be practical and efficient, acquiescence in the scheme and belief in its broad provisions became stronger and stronger. Less turbulent and more prosperous times were in sight and from condemnation and criticism almost universal praise arose for the system of government.
The Constitution of 1780 still in Force
Forty-four amendments have been made to the Massachusetts Constitution and three Constitutional Conventions have been held since the one we have been discussing, yet the Constitution of 1780 is still in force. The original Constitution in practically all the States of the Union has been superseded by at least one, and in most cases by several new documents, each one growing longer and laying down provisions relating to an infinite number of subjects. Massachusetts alone is living under her original Constitution. This has been possible because of the provisions for amendment and because of the liberal enactments in the original document. It is not because Massachusetts is behind the times, but because the originators of her constitution were far-seeing enough to draw up a liberal and flexible document. The length of time it has lasted and the satisfaction it has given, the great industries that have grown up under it, the prosperity and happiness of the people, the advancement of science and education—all stand as bright tributes to the
