Rhode Island was the last original state to ratify the United States Constitution, a milestone connected to America250’s founding theme.
Rhode Island approved the Constitution on May 29, 1790, nearly three years after Delaware became the first state to ratify. The final vote was 34 to 32 at the state’s ratifying convention in Newport. Rhode Island’s decision completed ratification by all thirteen original states.
The state had rejected an earlier ratification convention and held a popular vote before finally sending delegates to a convention. Opposition centered on concerns about federal power, individual liberties, and the absence of a bill of rights in the original Constitution.
Rhode Island’s late approval did not prevent the Constitution from taking effect. Article Seven required ratification by nine states, a threshold reached when New Hampshire approved the document in June 1788. Rhode Island’s action completed the original states’ formal participation.