Delaware Ratifies the Constitution

Historical Significance and Background

In 1787, Delaware made history by becoming the first state to ratify the United States Constitution. This event elevated Delaware as the first state to join the Union.

Although the United States had established itself as an independent nation after the American Revolution in the 1780s, it did not yet have a constitution or a central government. The Articles of Confederation, which were used during the American Revolution and approved by the Confederation Congress, served as a temporary solution to facilitate cooperation among the states. However, this confederation proved ineffective due to the lack of central authority, necessitating a stronger constitutional framework to govern the United States.

The draft of the United States Constitution was prepared during the Constitutional Convention held in Philadelphia in the summer of 1787. During this convention, delegates engaged in a contentious process to determine the balance of power between the states and the federal government. Once the draft constitution was completed, it was submitted for the approval of the states.

Development of the Event

Delaware's Ratification of the Constitution

In 1787, Delaware became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution. On December 7, 1787, the delegates from Delaware unanimously gathered to officially adopt the Constitution. By approving the Constitution, Delaware became the first state to join the American Union, thus holding historical significance.

Delaware's ratification of the Constitution set an example for other states and created momentum for other states to ratify the Constitution. Delaware's action is considered a significant turning point in the process of adopting the Constitution.

Consequences and Impacts

Delaware's ratification of the Constitution resulted in numerous short-term and long-term consequences and impacts. In the short term, it served as an example for other states to ratify the Constitution, accelerating the process of its adoption. In the long term, it established a foundation for the federal government of the United States and regulated the relationships between the federal government and the states.

Delaware's ratification of the Constitution strengthened the central government of the United States and contributed to the determination of federal powers. Additionally, it enabled the United States to attain a stronger position internationally upon the adoption of the Constitution. Delaware's action enhanced the unity of the United States and contributed to the country's future growth.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present

Delaware's ratification of the Constitution is regarded as a significant milestone in the history of the United States. This event laid the foundation for the Constitution, which regulates the federal government and the relationships between the states. Furthermore, Delaware's ratification expedited the approval of the Constitution by other states, leading to the unity of the United States.

Today, Delaware maintains its importance as a state representing the cultural and historical heritage of the United States. Delaware takes pride in being the first state to ratify the Constitution and utilizes this historical event in the fields of tourism and education. Moreover, Delaware's action has become a symbol emphasizing fundamental values such as democracy and the rule of law in the United States.

Lessons drawn from Delaware's ratification of the Constitution emphasize the significance of democracy and the establishment of a constitutional order for the unity and stability of a country. Additionally, it underscores the importance of inter-state cooperation and strengthening the central government for the growth and development of a nation.