Page:Arkansas Constitution 1874 (published 1913).pdf/8

18 the middle of the main channel of said last named river, including an island in said river known as "Belle Point Island," and all other land originally surveyed and included as a part of the Territory or State of Arkansas, to the thirty-sixth degree of north latitude, the place of beginning

The seat of government of the State of Arkansas shall be and remain at Little Rock, where it is now established.

Section 1. All political power is inherent in the people, and government is instituted for their protection, security and benefit; and they have the right to alter, reform or abolish the same in such manner as they may think proper.

Sec. 2. All men are created equally free and independent, and have certain inherent and inalienable rights, amongst which are those of enjoying and defending life and liberty; of acquiring, possessing and protecting property and reputation, and of pursuing their own happiness. To secure these rights governments are instituted among men, deriving just powers from the consent of the governed.

Sec. 3. The equality of all persons before the law is recognized, and shall ever remain inviolate; nor shall any citizen ever be deprived of any right, privilege or immunity, nor exempted from any burden or duty, on account of race, color or previous condition.

Sec. 4. The right of the people peaceably to assemble to consult for the common good, and to petition, by address or remonstrance, the government, or any department thereof, shall never be abridged.

Sec. 5. The citizens of this State shall have the right to keep and bear arms for their common defense.

Sec. 6. The liberty of the press shall forever remain inviolate. The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of man; and all persons may freely write and publish their sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of such rights. In all criminal prosecutions for libel the truth may be given in evidence to the jury; and, if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true, and was published with good motives and for justifiable ends, the party charged shall be acquitted.

Sec. 7. The right of trial by jury shall remain inviolate, and shall extend to all eases at law, without regard to the amount in controversy; but a jury trial may be waived by the parties in all eases in the manner prescribed by law.

Sec. 8. No person shall be held to answer a criminal charge unless on the presentment or indictment of a grand jury, except in eases of impeachment or eases such as the General Assembly shall make cognizable