All persons have certain natural, essential and inalienable rights, among which may be reckoned the right of enjoying and defending their lives and liberties; of acquiring, possessing and protecting property; and of seeking and obtaining their safety and happiness.

Source: Entire article added, effective August 1, 1876, see L. 1877, p. 29.

Cross references: For the guarantee of judicial process for protection of inalienable rights, see § 25 of this article.