Delaware became the first U.S. state by ratifying the Constitution.
Delaware’s convention approved ratification unanimously on December 7, 1787. Because it was the first state to ratify, Delaware is commonly called “The First State,” a nickname that appears on its state license plates and official materials.
The state’s position also connects to the earlier independence era commemorated by America250. Delaware’s representatives participated in the Second Continental Congress, and the colony separated its government from British rule in June 1776. Caesar Rodney, George Read, and Thomas McKean were among Delaware’s prominent revolutionary leaders.
Delaware was one of the smaller states by territory and population, but its early ratification carried symbolic importance. The Constitution required approval by nine states to take effect among the ratifying states; New Hampshire became the ninth in June 1788. Rhode Island was the last of the original thirteen states to ratify, doing so in 1790.