When was the Constitution ratified?

The Constitution was ratified in 1788 when nine states approved it, making it the governing document of the United States. This formal acceptance marked a significant moment in American history, as it established the framework for the federal government and outlined the rights and responsibilities of states and citizens.

The year 1788 is crucial because it was during this year that the requirement for nine states to ratify the Constitution was fulfilled, leading to its implementation in 1789. The Articles of Confederation, often linked to the year 1781, were the first governing document of the United States but proved inadequate, prompting the development of the Constitution. The year 1776 refers to the Declaration of Independence, which, while vital in establishing American sovereignty, was not a governing document. Lastly, 1791 is notable for the ratification of the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the Constitution, but it does not reflect the ratification of the Constitution itself. This understanding underscores the significance of 1788 in the context of U.S. governance.