West Virginia became a state in 1863, following its separation from the commonwealth of Virginia brought on, ultimately, by the Civil War. During its history, five state constitutions have governed West Virginia: three as part of Virginia and then two following West Virginia's creation. InThe West Virginia State Constitution, Robert M. Bastress provides a historical and legal analysis of each of West Virginia's five constitutions; from its statehood and first constitution in 1863 to the present. An article-by-article analytical commentary on the 1872 constitution and its amendments comprise most of the book, while a table of cases, bibliographical essay, and index complete this excellent research tool designed for anyone interested in West Virginia's constitutional history. The Oxford Commentaries on the State Constitutions of the United Statesis an important new series that reflects a renewed international interest in constitutional history and provides expert insight into each of the 50 state constitutions. Each volume in this innovative series contains a historical overview of the state's constitutional development, a section-by-section analysis of its current constitution, and a comprehensive guide to further research. Under the expert editorship of Professor G. Alan Tarr, Director of the Center on State Constitutional Studies at Rutgers University, this series provides essential reference tools for understanding state constitutional law. Books in the series can be purchased individually or as part of a complete set, giving readers unmatched access to these important political documents.