The Seventeen-Article Constitution was promulgated by Prince
Shotoku (or Umayado or Kamitsumiya), a regent and politician of the Asuka
Period of Japan that served under Empress Suiko. The constitution is a document
inspired by traditional Buddhist and Confucian values, and stated the morals
and virtues expected of government officials and emperor’s subjects. It was one
of the earliest constitutions in history.
