Delaware is very small. Delaware's government was controlled by Pennsylvania until 1776. It also was the first state to ratify the Constitution when America became its on country. Do you think that Delaware tired of being controlled by Pennsylvania and that is why they ratified the Constitution first before the other states?

1 answer

It’s possible that Delaware's desire for independence and self-governance influenced its decision to ratify the Constitution first. Being a small state, Delaware may have felt particularly vulnerable or overshadowed by larger neighboring states like Pennsylvania. By ratifying the Constitution quickly, Delaware could assert its sovereignty and take an active role in shaping the new government of the United States.

Additionally, Delaware's leaders may have recognized the importance of being a part of the new federal system, which promised to provide stability and a framework for governance that could benefit smaller states. Ratifying the Constitution first may have also positioned Delaware as a leader among the states in the new union, allowing it to have a voice in the formation of the federal government.

Overall, while it might not be the sole reason, the historical context of Delaware's relationship with Pennsylvania and its desire for autonomy likely played a significant role in its quick ratification of the Constitution.