Jonah Patel
Delaware's unanimous decision to ratify the United States Constitution on December 7, 1787, was significant because it set in motion the process of establishing federal democracy as the law of the land. Delaware, a small state with limited economic power, took the initiative to be the first state to ratify the Constitution, beating Pennsylvania by five days. This bold move by Delaware, known as The First State, was instrumental in shaping the future of the young republic and strengthening the national government. The state's early ratification also contributed to the eventual adoption of the Constitution by the required nine out of thirteen states, with New Hampshire becoming the decisive ninth state on June 21, 1788.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date of ratification | December 7, 1787 |
| Number of delegates | 30 |
| Vote count | 30-0 |
| Delaware's nickname | "The First State" |
| Previous constitution | Adopted on September 20, 1776 |
| Number of delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia | 5 |
| Date of final session of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia | September 17, 1787 |
| Number of states required to ratify the Constitution | 9 out of 13 |
| Date the Constitution became the official framework of the US government | June 21, 1788 |
| Date the US government under the Constitution took effect | March 4, 1789 |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Delaware was the first state to ratify the US Constitution
The Constitution required ratification by nine of the 13 existing states to come into effect. Delaware's early ratification, along with its small size and limited influence, earned it the nickname \"The First State.\" This moniker is a source of pride for the citizens of Delaware, who continue to honour their forefathers' decisive action.
The swift ratification by Delaware held particular significance at the time. Delaware's willingness to embrace the new Constitution signalled a shift towards a stronger national government, addressing the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation, which had granted excessive power to individual states. Delaware's example encouraged other states to follow suit, with New Hampshire becoming the decisive ninth state to ratify on June 21, 1788.
It is worth noting that Delaware's ratification was not without its complexities. The state was small, lacking a major economic centre or product, and was surrounded by larger, more influential states. Despite these challenges, Delaware's leaders recognised the benefits of joining a union with larger states. Additionally, Delaware's delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia played a crucial role in addressing the representation concerns of small versus large states.
In conclusion, Delaware's status as the first state to ratify the US Constitution holds both historical and symbolic significance. It exemplifies the state's proactive role in shaping the nation's future and underscores the importance of individual states' contributions to the formation of the United States as we know it today.
The Constitution: An Ever-Changing Document?
You may want to see also
Delaware's unanimous vote was significant
Delaware's ratification of the Constitution was therefore a bold and important move, setting a precedent for other states to follow. Indeed, a contemporary French observer living in New York City wrote, "Delaware has the advantage of having given the first signal of a revolution in the general government of the United States, and its example can only produce a good effect in only state conventions". Delaware's vote was also significant because it was unanimous. It was one of only three states to vote unanimously to ratify the Constitution, the others being New Jersey and Georgia.
Delaware's delegates had also contributed to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, including proposing an amendment that addressed small versus large state representation. All five of Delaware's delegates signed the Constitution in September 1787. This was a surprising move, as the proposed constitution was not a revision of the Articles of Confederation, but an entirely new document that gave considerable power to the national government. Delaware's citizens desired a stronger national government, and so all of the state's normally combative political factions favoured the new constitution.
Delaware's unanimous vote was therefore significant because it was the first state to ratify the Constitution, setting a powerful example to other states and helping to ensure that the United States Constitution became the law of the land. The state's delegates had also contributed to the writing of the Constitution, addressing issues of representation for smaller states like Delaware.
Jackson's Base: Farmers, Workers, and Westerners
You may want to see also
Delaware's ratification influenced other states
Delaware was the first state to ratify the United States Constitution, doing so on December 7, 1787, and influencing other states to follow suit. The state's willingness to take the initiative was significant, as it set an example for other state conventions. A French observer in New York City at the time noted that Delaware's action would "produce a good effect in other state conventions."
Delaware's ratification was particularly notable given its small size and lack of major economic centres or products. Despite this, Delaware had a large coastline and intelligent leaders who recognised the benefits of joining a union with larger states. The state's unanimous vote to ratify the Constitution demonstrated its desire for a stronger national government than what was provided under the Articles of Confederation, which gave too much political power to individual states.
Delaware's early ratification influenced other states to follow in its footsteps, with New Hampshire becoming the decisive ninth state to ratify on June 21, 1788, making federal democracy the law of the land. Delaware's leadership in this process earned it the nickname "The First State." The state continues to honour its forefathers for their wise decision, which gave Delaware a proud heritage.
Delaware's ratification of the Constitution was a significant moment in the formation of the United States, and its example helped to encourage other states to join in ratifying the document, ultimately leading to the establishment of the federal government on March 4, 1789. The Constitution was not ratified by all states until May 29, 1790, when Rhode Island, another small state, became the final state to approve it.
The Three Estates: Pre-Revolutionary France's Social Structure
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Delaware contributed to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia
Delaware's contribution to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia was significant. The state sent five delegates to the convention: Richard Bassett, Gunning Bedford, Jr., Jacob Broom, John Dickinson, and George Read. All five signed the Constitution in September 1787, with Read signing on behalf of Dickinson, who was unwell.
Delaware's delegation played a crucial role in addressing the issue of small versus large-state representation. They threatened to leave the Convention if proportional representation replaced equal representation, demonstrating their commitment to protecting the interests of smaller states.
The delegates from Delaware were also instructed to offer amendments to the Articles of Confederation "to render the Federal Constitution adequate to the Exigencies of the Union". They were not alone in this view, as many delegates had assumed the convention's purpose was to discuss improvements to the existing Articles of Confederation. However, as the convention progressed, most delegates agreed that a new system of government was needed.
Delaware's willingness to act quickly and become the first state to ratify the Constitution on December 7, 1787, was also significant. This set an important precedent for other states to follow, and Delaware's example helped pave the way for the United States Constitution to become the law of the land.
The Constitution's Objective in 1791: For the People
You may want to see also
Delaware's small size and coastline were factors
Delaware's small size and extensive coastline played a significant role in the state's influence on the acceptance of the Constitution. Firstly, Delaware's small geographic area meant that it had a relatively homogeneous population with shared economic interests and social connections. This made it easier for the state's leaders to gauge public opinion and build consensus, which was crucial in the debate over ratification. With a unified front, Delaware was able to act quickly and decisively, becoming the first state to approve the Constitution. This carried symbolic importance as it set a precedent and encouraged other states, particularly smaller ones, to follow suit.
The state's small size also meant that its delegation to the Constitutional Convention was particularly intimate and cohesive. The close-knit group, which included prominent figures such as George Read and Gunning Bedford Jr., fostered strong personal relationships and a unified vision for the state's future. This cohesion allowed them to advocate for Delaware's interests effectively during the Convention and played a crucial role in shaping the final document to address the concerns of smaller states. The delegation's influence extended beyond the Convention as well, as they actively campaigned for ratification and helped navigate the complex political landscape of the time.
Additionally, Delaware's strategic location and coastline contributed to its significance. The state sits on the eastern edge of the Delaware River, which was a major trade route and transportation corridor during the 18th century. This placed Delaware at the crossroads of commerce and travel, connecting it to larger cities like Philadelphia and providing access to the Atlantic Ocean for trade and shipping. As a result, Delaware had strong economic ties with its neighboring states and a vested interest in maintaining stability and fostering interstate cooperation. This position also gave Delaware a unique perspective on the importance of a strong central government to regulate commerce, protect coastal states, and facilitate interstate trade.
The coastline also shaped Delaware's economic interests and political priorities. With a thriving shipping industry and a dependence on maritime commerce, Delaware had a particular interest in ensuring that the new government could effectively regulate trade, protect coastal waters, and promote economic prosperity. The state's delegates advocated for provisions in the Constitution that would address these concerns, such as the Commerce Clause and the Necessary and Proper Clause, which granted Congress broad powers to regulate interstate commerce and enact laws necessary for governing the country.
Delaware's small size and coastline also influenced the state's approach to representation and power-sharing in the new government. As a small state, Delaware was concerned with ensuring that it had a voice in the national government and that its interests were not overshadowed by larger states. The state's delegates advocated for a strong Senate, where each state would have equal representation, and worked to secure protections for individual liberties and state sovereignty. This included the Tenth Amendment, which clarified that powers not delegated to the federal government were reserved for the states or the people, addressing concerns about centralized power and states' rights.
In conclusion, Delaware's small size and coastline were critical factors in the state's influence on the acceptance of the Constitution. The state's unity and quick ratification set a precedent, while its delegation's cohesion and influence shaped the final document to address the concerns of smaller states. Delaware's economic interests, shaped by its coastline, also drove key constitutional provisions related to commerce and coastal concerns. Finally, Delaware's experience highlighted the importance of representation and power-sharing in the new government, helping to secure protections for individual liberties and state sovereignty. Together, these factors contributed to Delaware's significant role in the adoption of the U.S. Constitution.
George Washington's Influence on the US Constitution
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Delaware was the first state to ratify the United States Constitution, on December 7, 1787, earning it the nickname "The First State".
Yes, all 30 delegates to the Delaware Constitutional Convention voted in favour of ratifying the Constitution.
Yes, Delaware was a small state in 1787, and many believed that the only way to survive as a small state would be to join in a union with the larger states.
Delaware's decision to ratify the Constitution was seen as a "good effect" that encouraged other states to follow suit. By June 21, 1788, New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify, making federal democracy the law of the land.
The Constitution became the official framework of the US government on March 4, 1789. However, it was not ratified by all states until May 29, 1790, when Rhode Island approved the document.
