Largely modeled on the Constitution of the United States, it remained in effect from its adoption on 26 July 1847 until its suspension by the People's Redemption Council, following the coup d'état on 12 April 1980.
The executive branch was led by the President, elected by popular vote of all land-owning citizens to a two-year term.
Legislative power was held by the Legislature, a bicameral body made up of a House of Representatives and a Senate.
The judicial branch consisted of the Supreme Court, made up of the Chief Justice and four associate justices, and circuit courts created by the Legislature.
Approved in a referendum on 27 September 1847, the Constitution was amended several times from 1847 to 1980.