Delaware Becomes the First State to Ratify the United States Constitution

On December 7, 1787, Delaware earned its place in history as the first state to ratify the United States Constitution. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of the formal adoption process of the Constitution, setting a precedent for the other states in the newly independent nation.

Context and Background

• Articles of Confederation: Before the Constitution, the United States was governed by the Articles of Confederation, which had been in effect since 1781. However, the Articles were widely regarded as ineffective due to their lack of central authority and inability to address economic and security issues.

• Constitutional Convention: In response to these challenges, the Constitutional Convention was convened in Philadelphia in May 1787. Delegates from 12 of the 13 states (Rhode Island abstained) gathered to draft a new framework for the federal government.

• Drafting the Constitution: The Convention concluded on September 17, 1787, with the signing of the Constitution. It proposed a stronger federal government with separate executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

Delaware’s Ratification

• The Delaware Convention: Delaware’s ratification convention met in Dover, the state capital, on December 3, 1787. The delegates were tasked with deciding whether to accept or reject the new Constitution.

• Unanimous Decision: On December 7, after just four days of deliberation, the delegates voted unanimously (30-0) in favor of ratification. This swift and decisive action underscored Delaware’s commitment to a unified national government.

• Significance: By being the first to ratify, Delaware set an example for other states, demonstrating confidence in the new Constitution and encouraging others to follow suit.

Aftermath and Broader Impact

• Subsequent Ratifications: Following Delaware’s lead, Pennsylvania became the second state to ratify the Constitution on December 12, 1787. Eventually, the required nine states ratified the document by June 1788, allowing it to become the law of the land.

• The “First State”: Delaware’s early ratification earned it the nickname “The First State,” a title it proudly holds to this day.

• Foundation for the United States: The ratification of the Constitution laid the groundwork for the United States’ federal government and has remained the supreme law of the country, with amendments and interpretations shaping its evolution over time.

Delaware’s ratification of the Constitution was a crucial step in the establishment of the United States as a unified and functioning republic, highlighting the state’s pivotal role in American history.