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This Day in American History

May 23

1 historic event on this date

Founding1788

South Carolina Ratifies the Constitution

South Carolina became the eighth state to ratify the Constitution, bringing the nation one step closer to the nine-state threshold required for the document to take effect. The state's ratification convention voted 149 to 73 in favor.

Why It Matters

Each state's ratification was a deliberate act of self-governance, as citizens debated and chose to create a more perfect union through democratic consent.

Explore the Principles Behind the History

Every event in American history connects to the founding principles. Discover the ideas that shaped these moments.

View the 28 Founding Principles