The (first part of the) course examines the origins of modern constitutionalism, from its first controversial inception in the middle ages (Magna Charta Libertatum) to some early modern experiences particularly like
fundamental laws as an unwritten constitutional endowment.

In the second part of the course the development of Representative Institutions and the changes in the administrative apparatus between XIX and XX centuries will be examined, with particular attention to the Italian case but considering also a comparative framework concernig the main European Countries. The features of the Italian form of government will be analized, stating from the grant of the constitution (Statuto albertino) in 1848; the development of the administrative apparatus will be analized, stating from the Cavour reform of 1853. The matters linked to the complex process produced by the National unification will be examined, as well as the features and the
results of the Crispi’s reforms in the last part of XIX century or those promoted by Giolitti at the beginning of XX century; the changes produced by the first world war and those introduced by Fascism will be considered.
Finally, the choices produced by the return to democracy will be examined.