Cover of The English Constitution

The English Constitution

by Walter Bagehot

First published
1867
Reading level
Fairly demanding
Price
Free

About the book

"The English Constitution" by Walter Bagehot is a political analysis first serialized between 1865 and 1867. It examines how Britain's government actually works, distinguishing between the "dignified parts" that inspire public reverence and the "efficient parts" that wield real power. Bagehot argues that the Cabinet's fusion of executive and legislative authority is the system's true secret, while the monarchy serves a symbolic role. His observations on constitutional monarchy remain influential today.

  • Great Britain
  • Constitutional history
  • Constitutional law

Updated September 2026. Public domain in the USA. Text and summary from Project Gutenberg eBook #4351. The English Constitution on Wikipedia.

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