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1879 California Constitution — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging history reading passage introduces students to the 1879 California Constitution and the demand for change during the Progressive Era. Students will learn how Californians united to address unfair laws, high taxes, and the power of big railroad companies. The passage uses simple language to build foundational literacy skills and includes primary source quotes, a glossary, timeline, and activities for deeper understanding. Students will explore cause and effect, key historical figures, and the impact of reform on California's future. The lesson is aligned with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, and it features a read aloud audio and a full Spanish translation. This resource is ideal for building knowledge of U.S. history and developing critical thinking skills in a supportive, student-friendly format.

CONTENT PREVIEW

People gather around a table, one person holding a scroll triumphantly. — Artist Representation of a new constitution brings hope for change in California.

The 1879 California Constitution was a turning point in the state's history. People in California wanted change. The original constitution from 1849 no longer fit the changing needs of the state. By the late 1800s, California had grown quickly. New problems needed new solutions.

One major concern was the power of the railroad companies. The Central Pacific Railroad was very powerful. It controlled much of California's transport and trade. Many people believed the railroad had too much influence on the government. They worried it hurt small businesses and made prices unfair. Citizens wanted the government to control what the railroad could do. This push for regulation was a big reason for the new constitution.

Many Californians also feared losing jobs to Chinese immigrant workers. Chinese workers helped build the railroads and worked in fields and cities. But prejudice grew among some groups. They blamed Chinese workers for low wages and job competition. The new constitution responded to this by including discriminatory provisions. These rules made it hard for Chinese people to get jobs or live freely in California. This was an example of unfair treatment called discrimination.

In 1878, leaders called a convention to write a new constitution. Many people attended. Some wanted more rights and protections for workers. Others wanted strict rules against Chinese immigrants. After months of debate, the new constitution was approved by voters in 1879. It brought more government control over railroads. It also included unfair rules against Chinese people. Some changes helped the state grow. Others caused pain for people who were treated unfairly.

The 1879 California Constitution showed both progress and prejudice. It solved some problems and created others. Over time, California changed many of its unfair laws. Today, the constitution reminds us of the importance of fair rules for all people.

Interesting Fact: California's 1879 constitution was one of the longest in the world at the time, with over 20,000 words.

When was the new California Constitution approved?

1879184918891899

Which company had too much power?

Central Pacific RailroadGold Mining CoPacific TelephoneOcean Shipping

What group faced unfair rules?

Chinese immigrantsIrish settlersFarmersTeachers

Why did people want regulation of railroads?

To make prices fairTo build more schoolsTo raise gold pricesTo help teachers

What did the constitution do for workers?

Offered more rightsBuilt new roadsLowered taxesClosed businesses

How did the constitution treat Chinese immigrants?