Why the States Ratified the U.S. Constitution: A Closer Look
The ratification of the U.S. Constitution was a critical moment in American history. While the founders such as George Washington and James Madison played significant roles, it was the states that ultimately made the decision to endorse the new federal government. This article delves into the reasons why the states ratified the Constitution, focusing on the different motivations and outcomes in various states.
Overview of the Ratification Process
The Constitution was not ratified by the Founding Fathers in the traditional sense. Instead, the thirteen state legislatures ratified the Constitution. The Constitutional Convention, where the document was drafted in 1787, did not include a ratification process. The delegates submitted the document to the state legislatures, which then held conventions to decide whether to ratify it.
Reasons for Ratification
The reasons for ratification varied by state. Here are some of the key motivations:
Delaware
Delaware ratified the Constitution in part to protect their sovereignty. John Dickinson, a prominent political figure, helped convince Delaware that joining the Union would maintain their autonomy. Delaware feared losing its control over its affairs, which it had just severed from Pennsylvania.
New England States
New England states ratified the Constitution primarily due to concerns about rebellion and the consolidation of debt at the federal level. Many feared the possibility of civil unrest and saw the federal government as an opportunity to manage national debt and establish a sound currency. Mercantilists also saw the potential for British-style crony capitalism under the new federal government.
Connecticut
Connecticut ratified the Constitution largely due to Roger Sherman, a prominent delegate and legislator. Sherman, described by John Adams as "an old puritan," played a significant role in drafting the Constitution. He reassured Connecticut residents that their established church would be protected and that the federal government's power would be limited to defense and trade.
Georgia
Georgia ratified the Constitution because the state was still recovering from war and lacked the resources to operate as a fully independent entity. The federal government could provide the necessary support to help the state regain stability.
North Carolina
North Carolina's ratification process was more contentious. Initially, North Carolina refused to ratify the Constitution at their first convention. However, well-reasoned arguments from James Iredell, William Richardson Davie, and the absence of Willie Jones, a key opponent of ratification, eventually convinced the state to join the Union.
Virginia and New York
Virginia and New York had strong anti-Federalist sentiments, with individuals like John Lansing and Patrick Henry opposing the ratification. The key concessions that led to their ratification were the inclusion of a bill of rights and the explicit provision that states could reassert their powers if the federal government abused its authority.
South Carolina
South Carolina had a unique history. Despite its traditional pro-states' rights stance in later years, it had Federalist leanings during the founding period. This was partly due to the concentration of aristocratic power and the severe repercussions of the war. However, like other states, South Carolina's ratification ultimately depended on assurances that the federal government would have only the powers explicitly granted by the Constitution.
Maryland
Maryland's ratification process was influenced by Luther Martin, a strong anti-Federalist. Nevertheless, the promise of a bill of rights helped the Federalists secure the state's support.
These varied reasons highlight that the Constitution was ratified as a defense and trade compact. With the potential for a corrupt empire, the founders likely would have refused to ratify the Constitution as it stands today.