Source: John Bibby, Governing by Consent: An Introduction to American Politics, 2nd ed. (Washington, D.C.: CQ Press), p. 53.

The Struggle for Ratification of the Constitution

While most of the smaller states overwhelmingly supported ratification of the Constitution (New Hampshire and Rhode Island were exceptions), strong opposition existed in the larger states whose approval was crucial for the new government's success.

Pennsylvania. Ratification was gained over stubborn opposition by a vote of 46-23 and was accompanied by a demand for a bill of rights.

Massachusetts. When the state included a demand for a bill of rights with ratification, the initial skepticism of John Hancock and Samuel Adams was overcome.

Virginia. The opposition led by George Mason and Patrick Henry was overcome by an 89-79 vote on the understanding that amendments would be added later to the Constitution.

New York. Backed by arguments in The Federalist, Alexander Hamilton led the fight for ratification, which was won by a narrow 30-27 vote.