Question

Which of the following events happened in the late 1780s?

A. The US ratified its constitution.
B. The US declared its independence.
C. The US engaged in the Civil War.
D. The US obtained the Louisiana Purchase.""

Answer 1

The United States ratified its constitution in the late 1780s, specifically in 1789, after drafting it in 1787. This event marked a pivotal strengthening of the central government, replacing the weaker Articles of Confederation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the events that occurred in the late 1780s, the correct answer is that the United States ratified its constitution. The Constitution, drafted in 1787 during the Constitutional Convention, was officially adopted in 1789. This critical document replaced the Articles of Confederation and substantially strengthened the central government's power, enabling it to tax and regulate interstate commerce among other powers.

The other options listed are incorrect in the context of the late 1780s. The Declaration of Independence was made in 1776; the Civil War did not begin until 1861; and the Louisiana Purchase took place in 1803, which doubled the size of the nation and kicked off a significant westward expansion.