When was the first US state established?

Delaware is located on a plain and its area is about 1,954 square miles. This fact makes the state one of the smallest among other US states. The climate is influenced by the short distance from the ocean so it might be described as something between subtropical and continental. The state attracts visitors with its various museums, wildlife refuges and even some historic sites. Besides, the state is often called "the first state" as it happened to be the first of the thirteen colonies to accept the constitution in 1787.

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46 Comments

Don Carsten

I didn't think any of the answers were correct. I think the first state was Virginia, who declared independence from Great Britain before the Declaration of Independence was issued. All the others were officially states when the Declaration was signed and published. The final paragraph of that document begins, "We, therefore, the representatives fo the united states of America..." Therefore, all the former English colonies became independent states no later than July 4, 1776, and proved that to be the case by fighting a long war to finally espablish their independence.

Burleigh Grimes

Good lord, you're wrong on all accounts. For as much complaining about the questions and answers you all do, you'd think you whiners wouldn't say such dumb stuff all the time.

Cathie Roth Lonnquist

The first 13 colonies became states in July of 1776 once they agreed on the Declaration of Independence. Delaware didn't become a state until after the war, This question was poorly worded or should have said what was the first one after the War for Independence.

Mark Ann Dubaz

The Constitutional Conversation was held in 1787 and Delaware was our 1st state to be ratified.

Etta Webster

The first 13 states were from 1778 to 1789.

John Gower

Thought it was 1493

Shoy Verona Sinclair

Got it !

Jum Sae

Woooohoooo, reading is my favourite.

Janice Fish

Good question

Jenny Varndell

Got it right after seeing a question about Delaware on a quiz!

anthonygriffin

It's ironic that the date is historical, to the same month & day (December 7, 1941) that Pearl Harbor was attacked by the Japanese.

Barbara Gunter

Thank you for this question. I did not know the answer but wanted to know the answer so I guessed. I wonder if I ever knew the answer

Diane Herbert Wall

THe signers knew ahead of time when to ratify--thus beating out PA. which became the second to sign. Initially it was thought that PA. would be the first.