On 1 May 1853, the Argentine National Constitution was enacted in the city of Santa Fe; this fundamental document laid the foundations for the republican, representative and federal system that governs the country’s political life.

Its drafting was the result of a historical process aimed at consolidating national unity following decades of internal conflict. Inspired by the principles of liberalism and the contributions of Juan Bautista Alberdi, particularly his work *Bases and Starting Points for the Political Organisation of the Argentine Republic*, the Constitution established an institutional framework designed to guarantee individual freedoms, the separation of powers and the functioning of a government based on the rule of law.

Among its core provisions, it established the organisation of the executive, legislative and judicial branches, as well as the fundamental rights and guarantees of all citizens. Its Preamble summarises the values that guide democratic life: to establish national unity, to uphold justice, to consolidate internal peace, to promote the general welfare and to ensure the benefits of liberty.

Over the years, the Constitution has been amended on several occasions—in 1860, 1866, 1898, 1957 and 1994—with the aim of adapting to the country’s social, political and cultural changes, whilst remaining a cornerstone of Argentina’s institutional order.

National Constitution Day was established by Law No. 25,863 in 2003, with the aim of promoting awareness of the Constitution and strengthening civic consciousness regarding its importance.

173 years after its enactment, the National Constitution remains the foundation of Argentina’s democratic system and the framework that guarantees the rights, institutions and organisation of the State.