1848 Swiss constitutional referendum

A constitutional referendum was held in Switzerland in July and August 1848, the first referendum on record in the Swiss Confederation. The new constitution was approved by 72.8% of voters and a majority of cantons.

Background

In order to pass, any amendments to the constitution needed a double majority; a majority of the popular vote and majority of the cantons. The decision of each canton was based on the vote in that canton. Full cantons counted as one vote, whilst half cantons counted as half.