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Virginia Bill of Rights
A Declaration of Rights (June 12th, 1776)
Made by the Representatives of the good People of Virginia, assembled
in full and free Convention, which rights to pertain to them and their
posterity as the basis and foundation of government.
I. That all men are by nature equally free and independent, and have
certain inherent rights, of which, when they enter into a state of society,
they cannot by any compact, deprive or divest their posterity; namely,
the enjoyment of life and liberty with the means of acquiring and possessing property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety.
II. That all power is vested in, and consequently derived from, the
people; that magistrates are their trustees and servants, and at all times
amendable to them.
III. That government is, or ought to be, instituted for the common benefit, protection and security of the people, nation, or community; of all
the various modes and forms of government, that is best which is capable of producing the greatest degree of happiness and safety, and is
most effectually secured against the danger of maladministration; and
that, when a government shall be found inadequate or contrary to these
purposes, a majority of the community hath an indubitable, unalienable
and indefeasible right to reform, alter or abolish it, in such manner as
shall be judged most conducive to the public weal.
IV. That no man, or set of men, are entitled to exclusive or separate
emoluments or privileges from the community but in consideration of
public services, which not being descendible, neither ought the offices of
magistrate, legislator, or judge to be hereditary.
V. That the legislative, executive and judicial powers should be separate and distinct; and that the members thereof may be restrained from
oppression, by feeling and participating the burdens of the people, they
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