List of delegates to the Maryland State Convention (1788) facts for kids

In April 1788, important leaders from Maryland gathered to make a big decision for their new country. From April 21 to April 28, these representatives met to decide if Maryland would officially approve, or ratify, the new Constitution of the United States. The Constitution is like the rulebook for how the U.S. government works.

Maryland's Big Decision

This special meeting was called the Maryland State Convention. Its main goal was to vote on whether Maryland would accept the new U.S. Constitution. George Plater was chosen to lead the convention as its president. William Harwood served as the secretary, keeping records of everything that happened.

The Vote for the Constitution

On April 28, 1788, the delegates cast their votes. The result was clear: 63 delegates voted yes to approve the Constitution, while only 11 voted no. This strong vote meant Maryland officially agreed to join the new United States under this important document.

Maryland made history that day! The 63 delegates who voted yes actually signed their names directly onto a written copy of the Constitution. This made Maryland the only one of the first thirteen states to show their approval by signing in ink. It was a very important moment for the young nation.

Who Were the Delegates?

The people who attended this important meeting were called delegates. They were chosen to represent different counties and towns across Maryland. These individuals had the big responsibility of deciding Maryland's future in the new United States.

Below is a list of the delegates who served at the state convention. Each delegate represented a specific county or town in Maryland.

See also

• Text of Resolution of Ratification of the Constitution of the United States by Maryland via Wikisource