Confederate Constitution

The Constitution framed by the Montgomery Convention of 1862 was based upon that of the Union with a few important changes. It recognized the ‘‘sovereign and independent character’? of the States and the protection of slavery in all new Territories. It prohibited protective tariffs and general internal improvements at Federal expense. The admi ion of a new State was to be accorded by a vote taken by the poll of the States. State Legislatures could impeach Confederate officers acting within their individual jurisdictions. The presidential term was lengthened to six years, and the President was made ineligible for re-election. Heads of the executive departments were granted the right of debate in Congre , and the latter’s appropriating power was restricted.