The United States Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787, a key milestone in the history commemorated by America250.
Delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document at the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia, now known as Independence Hall. Thirty-nine delegates signed, while several delegates refused or were unable to sign.
Signing completed the convention’s work, but it did not immediately put the Constitution into effect. Ratification by conventions in at least nine states was required before the new framework of government could operate.
The Constitution and the Declaration of Independence are distinct documents. The Declaration announced separation from Great Britain in 1776; the Constitution created the structure of the federal government and was signed eleven years later.