September 3rd, 1843: The Movement for a Constitution in Greece

September 3rd, 1843, marks the revolution that led to the granting of the first Constitution in Greece by King Otto. Politicians, people, and the military gathered in Palace Square (now Syntagma Square) demanding a constitutional monarchy.

The Revolution and the Constitution of 1844: A movement of soldiers and citizens forced Otto to grant a Constitution. The National Assembly drafted the Constitution of 1844, which established a constitutional monarchy, with legislative power shared between the King, Parliament, and the Senate. Senators were appointed for life by the King.

The Movement of 1862: On October 10, 1862, a new movement overthrew Otto and abolished the rights of the first dynasty. The new constitution included the principle of popular sovereignty, abolished the Senate, and established universal male suffrage.

September 3rd became a symbol of democratic resistance against the Palace and foreign influence.