A constitutional referendum was held in Maryland Colony on 29 March 1854.[1] The new constitution was approved by voters and general elections were subsequently held on 15 May, before independence was declared on 8 June.[1]
Background
editThe Maryland State Colonization Society was established in Maryland in the United States in 1830.[2] The group established the Maryland Colony in Africa on 22 February 1834.[3] After Liberia declared independence in 1847, the desire for independence also grew in Maryland, and the settlers presented a petition to the authorities for a referendum, which was held in January 1853 and approved by 100% of voters.[2]
In February 1854 elections for a Constitutional Council were held.[1] The Council subsequently produced a constitution making the territory a presidential republic with a bicameral legislature.[1] The House of Representatives would have five members serving two year terms and the Senate four members serving four year terms.[1] The presidential term would be two years.[1] Elections would be held under universal suffrage for "colored" men, and only Maryland citizens would be able to own property.[1]