Abstract
This article gives an overview of Cádiz in 1812 and the Constitution; the development of the contents of this constitution; its influence on the constitutions of other countries and vice versa; and the role of women under this constitution. Cádiz was a cosmopolitan city where races, cultures and traditions mingled — what we would call a multicultural city. The cultural environment of Cádiz in 1812 was so positive that not even in the worst moments of the French siege and bombing of the city would local people stop attending gatherings, concerts, schools, theatre performances, etc. The Cádiz Constitution is an essential text in the history of constitutionalism and of the liberal movement of the beginning of the nineteenth century in Spain, as well as in neighbouring countries and America. Therefore, the year 1812 may be considered the birth of Spanish constitutionalism and the beginning of the construction of Spain as a Constitutional State. The contributions of this constitution and subsequent extensions regarding developments in education will be explained, and its importance in the development of education will be highlighted. The Cádiz Constitution is one of the most important legal documents in Spanish national history and a chief contribution of our country to liberalism and international constitutionalism. Cádiz symbolises the beginning of constitutional Spain, Europe and Latin America.