How many states were required to ratify the Constitution for it to go into effect?

How many states were required to ratify the Constitution for it to go into effect?

• A. Nine
• B. Eleven
• C. Twelve
• D. Thirteen

Answer: (A)

Nine states were needed to ratify the Constitution for it to go into effect. The framers set this threshold in Article VII to require broad support without needing unanimous approval from all thirteen states. Once nine states had ratified, the document became the law of the land and the new government could operate. Delaware moved quickly, and when New Hampshire—the ninth state—ratified, the Constitution was effectively in force. The remaining states could then choose to ratify at their own pace; many did, but they were not required for the Constitution to take effect.

Nine states were needed to ratify the Constitution for it to go into effect. The framers set this threshold in Article VII to require broad support without needing unanimous approval from all thirteen states. Once nine states had ratified, the document became the law of the land and the new government could operate. Delaware moved quickly, and when New Hampshire—the ninth state—ratified, the Constitution was effectively in force. The remaining states could then choose to ratify at their own pace; many did, but they were not required for the Constitution to take effect.