ratification

The ratification of the Constitution required the approval of nine out of thirteen states. Supporters, known as Federalists, argued that a stronger national government was necessary for stability and governance. In contrast, the Anti-Federalists opposed the Constitution, fearing that a powerful national government might infringe upon state powers and individual rights. They insisted on the inclusion of a Bill of Rights to protect these liberties. To support the ratification effort, the Federalist Papers, written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, articulated persuasive arguments in favor of the Constitution. Ultimately, twelve states held conventions to discuss and vote on the document, with Delaware being the first state to ratify it. New Hampshire followed as the ninth state on June 21, 1788, after which the Federalists consented to add the Bill of Rights, resulting in the eventual ratification of the Constitution by all states.