Approve

Definition

To approve means to formally agree to or accept a proposal or decision. In the context of the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, approval was crucial as it required the consent of at least nine of the thirteen states for the Constitution to take effect, reflecting the principle of federalism and state sovereignty inherent in the new government structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The U.S. Constitution required approval from nine states to become effective, showcasing the importance of consensus among states.
2. The ratification debates highlighted divisions between Federalists, who supported a strong central government, and Anti-Federalists, who feared it would diminish state power.
3. States held conventions to debate and vote on the Constitution, allowing citizens to engage directly in the democratic process.
4. The approval process included assurances such as the promise to add a Bill of Rights to address concerns over individual liberties and state sovereignty.
5. The last state to approve the Constitution was Rhode Island in May 1790, which was critical for ensuring that all thirteen states were united under the new framework.

Review Questions

• How did the requirement for approval from nine states impact the ratification process of the U.S. Constitution?
  • The requirement for approval from nine states created a sense of urgency and necessity for compromise during the ratification process. It forced delegates to negotiate terms that could satisfy both Federalists and Anti-Federalists, leading to key agreements such as the promise of a Bill of Rights. This consensus-building was essential in ensuring that diverse interests across the states were represented and that the new government could function effectively.
• Discuss the role of state conventions in the approval process of the U.S. Constitution and their significance in democratic governance.
  • State conventions played a crucial role in the approval process of the U.S. Constitution by providing a platform for public debate and deliberation among citizens and their representatives. These conventions allowed individuals from various backgrounds to voice their opinions, concerns, and aspirations regarding governance. The significance lies in fostering civic engagement and legitimizing the new government structure through grassroots involvement, thereby reinforcing democratic principles.
• Evaluate how the approval process of the U.S. Constitution reflects broader themes of compromise and conflict in American politics.
  • The approval process of the U.S. Constitution is emblematic of broader themes of compromise and conflict in American politics, showcasing how differing visions for governance can lead to intense debate yet ultimately result in collaborative solutions. The struggle between Federalists and Anti-Federalists illustrates foundational conflicts about power distribution and individual rights. This negotiation led to compromises like the Bill of Rights, emphasizing how essential dialogue and consensus are for political progress, setting a precedent for future legislative processes.

Related terms

Ratification:

The official process by which a proposed law or constitutional amendment is formally accepted, typically requiring a vote by a legislative body or the electorate.

Federalism:

A political system in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, allowing for shared governance.

Constitutional Convention:

The gathering that took place in Philadelphia in 1787 where delegates from various states came together to draft and propose the U.S. Constitution.