Failures and Prospects: Four Eras of Constitutionalism in Mauritania

The military coup of August, 2005 in Mauritania that removed President Taya from power could be characterized as presenting the prospect of the fourth era of constitutionalism in the former French colony. This paper examines the three previous constitutional eras with specific critiques on the various constitutions that existed since the country’s independence in November 28, 1960. The analysis is important insofar as it warns of the consequences that are associated with the failures of constitutional totalitarianism in addition to stressing the importance of elaborating a lasting constitution that adopts liberal and democratic ideals.