In what year was the Constitution ratified?

The Constitution of the United States was ratified in 1787. This event marked a significant moment in American history, as it established the framework of the federal government and outlined the fundamental laws governing the nation. After being drafted at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia during the summer of 1787, the document was submitted for ratification by the states. The process culminated in the Constitution officially taking effect in 1789 once it had been ratified by the required nine states.

While 1776 is historically significant as the year the Declaration of Independence was adopted, it predates the Constitution and therefore does not pertain to its ratification. The year 1791 is relevant to the timeline of the Constitution as it marks the year the Bill of Rights—first ten amendments to the Constitution—was ratified, enhancing citizens' rights and limiting governmental power. Lastly, 1801 does not relate to the ratification of the Constitution; rather, it is significant as the year Thomas Jefferson was inaugurated as the third president of the United States. Thus, 1787 is the correct and pivotal year associated with the ratification of the Constitution.