How many states were required to ratify the Constitution for it to become law?

The Constitution required ratification by nine out of the thirteen states in order to become law. This requirement was established to ensure that a significant majority of the states supported the new framework of government established by the Constitution. The framers recognized that a supermajority would provide a stronger legitimacy to the new government, helping to ensure stability and acceptance across the diverse states that were represented.

Achieving the support of nine states was a critical step in transitioning from the Articles of Confederation to the new Constitution, as it highlighted the need for a unified government capable of addressing the challenges faced by the young nation. The ratification process began in 1787 and concluded in 1788, with the Constitution officially taking effect in 1789 once the necessary states had ratified it.