Montana Constitutional Convention Insights

The transcript discusses the 1972 Constitutional Convention in Helena, Montana, highlighting the critique of the 1889 Montana State Constitution for its lack of humane and environmental orientation. The speaker notes the absence of Indian representation among the delegates and describes their efforts to engage with the convention, particularly through the Bill of Rights committee. Encouragement from a delegate, Chet Laylock, is also mentioned.

What year did the constitutional convention in Helena begin?

• 1970

• 1971

• 1972

• 1973

What was the speaker's main criticism of the 1889 Montana State Constitution?

• It was too lengthy

• It was not legally binding

• It was too modern

• It was developed by vested interests

How many delegates were elected to revise the Montana State Constitution in 1972?

• 150

• 75

• 50

• 100

What was notably absent in the representation at the 1972 Constitutional Convention?

• Indian representatives

• Business leaders

• Women

• Farmers

What was the speaker's initial reaction to the lack of Indian representation?

• Surprised

• Indifferent

• Not surprised

• Angry

What committee did the speaker choose to engage with at the convention?

• Economic Committee

• Education Committee

• Bill of Rights Committee

• Environmental Committee

What was the speaker's reason for choosing the Bill of Rights committee?

• They believed it was the best place for input

• They had a personal interest in rights

• They were assigned to it

• It was the only available committee

Who encouraged the speaker to contribute to the convention?

• A family member

• Chet Laylock

• A fellow student

• The committee chair

What was Chet Laylock's role at the convention?

• A Republican delegate

• A committee chair

• An independent observer

• A Democrat delegate

What was the speaker's main goal in participating in the convention?

• To gain political power

• To ensure environmental policies

• To provide input on rights

• To oppose the convention