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End of the war
Great Britain recognizes the independence of the United States and both countries end up signing the Treaty of Paris. -
The First Move
Shay's Rebellion occurs, leading to many calls for the Articles Of confederation to be re-evaluated. This re-evaluation fueled the constitutional convention, which would begin in the following year -
Now We're Talking
After 3 months of debate with George Washington leading the way, the U.S constitution is officially formed. This established the three branches of government: Executive, Judicial and Legislative that still oversee our country today. -
But Hold on Now
December of the same year, Massachusetts opposed the constitution feeling like there were some key missing holes. Mass. felt as if the document failed to show undelegated powers to the states and lacked constitutional protection of basic political rights, such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press. -
Time For real Progress
The following February, Massachusetts and the other states who weren't confident enough to fully commit yet finally turned the corner. Leaders and state representatives came up with a compromise for Massachusetts,Maryland, and South Carolina to sign off knowing that the amendments will be situated. -
Period: to
Let's make it official
Because of rules, the document would not become binding until it was ratified by nine of the 13 states. By June, 1788 New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify the document, making the constitution official by March 1789. -
Domino Effect
In June 1789 Virginia Ratified the constitution, followed by New York in July. North Carolina ends up joining the group later on in the year. -
Who Wears the crown?
George Washington is finally sworn in as president. -
Let's make some change!
The first group of congress assembled, picking up 12 new amendments and forming the Bill of rights. -
Barely did it, but we did it!
Rhode Island was the last state to not ratify the constitution, playing hard to get because of the topics of: control of currency and the compromise of slavery bothering them. Come 1790 Rhode Island barely clear the votes to ratify, making it by just two votes.