Virginia's Ratification: The 10th State to Join the Union

June 25, 1788: Virginia Enters the United States

Virginia ratified the U.S. Constitution on June 25, 1788, becoming the 10th state to join the Union.

Ratification Context

• Convention: Richmond, June 2–25, 1788 (moved from Williamsburg for space)
• Vote: 89–79 (razor-thin; 53%–47%)
• Key Federalists: James Madison, John Marshall, Edmund Pendleton, George Wythe
• Key Anti-Federalists: Patrick Henry, George Mason, James Monroe, William Grayson

Why It Was Close

• No Bill of Rights: Henry/Mason demanded amendments first
• State sovereignty fears: "We the People" vs. "We the States"
• Western counties: Felt neglected by eastern elite; wanted KY separation
• Slavery: Implicit defense; 20-year import clause, 3/5 compromise

Decisive Factors

• Madison's promise to push amendments (→ Bill of Rights)
• New Hampshire (9th) ratified June 21 — Constitution already effective
• NY convention pending; VA refusal risked disunion
• Washington's private lobbying

Aftermath

• VA proposed 40 amendments; 12 sent to states; 10 ratified 1791 (Bill of Rights)
• KY separated 1792 (VA consent)
• VA provided 4 of first 5 presidents (Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe)

Historical Weight

Virginia was the largest, most populous, wealthiest colony. Its ratification legitimized the Constitution nationally. Without VA, the Union might have fractured before launching.