Fundamental Constitution of Carolina

1669–1698

The Fundamental Constitutions of Carolina, 1669

One of a number of versions, the 1669 Fundamental Constitutions was a theoretical instrument of rule. These documents, attributed to the young philosopher John Locke, provided for a feudal system in the new colony, with colonial nobility carrying hereditary titles such as "cacique" and "landgrave," and the eight proprietors forming the highest level of rule. It was adopted in March 1669 by the eight Lords Proprietor of the Province of Carolina.

Citation Information

The following information is provided for citations.

  • Title Fundamental Constitution of Carolina
  • Coverage 1669–1698
  • Author
  • Keywords Part constitution and part promotional tract, eight supporters of Charles II, the Lords Proprietors of Carolina, Anthony Ashley Cooper, Whig politician and chief proprietor, Fundamental Constitutions, Two Treatises on Civil Government (1690), province was divided into counties, Counties were divided into seigniories, baronies, and precincts, Congregationalists,
  • Website Name South Carolina Encyclopedia
  • Publisher University of South Carolina, Institute for Southern Studies
  • URL
  • Access Date October 14, 2024
  • Original Published Date
  • Date of Last Update August 3, 2022
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