The West Virginia Constitution

West Virginia became a state in 1863, following its separation from the commonwealth of Virginia brought on, ultimately, by the Civil War. During its history, five state constitutions have governed West Virginia: three as part of Virginia and then two following West Virginia's creation. In The West Virginia State Constitution, Robert M. Bastress provides a historical and legal analysis of each of West Virginia's five constitutions; from its statehood and first constitution in 1863 to the present