Georgia's first attempt at constitutional government was made in April of 1776 by the Georgia Trustees in response to a series of mass meetings held throughout the colony. This document provided a framework for the transition from colony to state. Soon after Georgia moved toward independence by accepting the Declaration of Independence, its first constitutional convention was organized. Completed in February 1777 and executed without having been submitted to voters for ratification, this constitution remained in effect for twelve years. It was secured in the possession of or assigned to a person. Becoming a state gave them new rights such as the free exercise of religion, freedom of the press, and trial by jury.