Final answer:
America's first written constitution, the U.S. Constitution, was developed and drafted in 1787, with Delaware being the first state to ratify it. It was influenced by enlightenment thinkers, the British political system, and American political experiences, ultimately receiving unanimous ratification from all 13 states by 1790.
Step-by-step explanation:
America's First Written Constitution:
The first written constitution developed in America was the U.S. Constitution, which is a foundational document of the United States government dating back over two hundred years. Drafted on September 16, 1787, the Constitution represents the culmination of American and British political thought. It incorporates influences from Enlightenment political thought, particularly from thinkers like Montesquieu, and also reflects lessons learned from previous documents such as the Articles of Confederation and the Declaration of Independence.
Founders of the Constitution used various countries and documents as resources, including their experiences with colonial and state governments, the British political system, and the constitutions of several states that had been written by the end of 1776. The Federalist Papers played a significant role in justifying and explaining the principles behind the Constitution during the ratification debates. Ultimately, the document was adopted after vigorous discussions and the inclusion of a promised bill of rights, a concern that was pivotal for some states like Virginia in agreeing to ratify.
Delaware was the first state to ratify the Constitution on December 7, 1787, while Rhode Island was the last, on May 29, 1790, leading to unanimous ratification by all 13 states. This founding document has since been a cornerstone of American democracy, with its amendments and interpretations continuing to evolve over time.