Ratification Day

Categories:: Special Interest
Tags:: American Federal Historical
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every January 14
Holiday emoji:: 🇺🇸

Ratification Day commemorates the official end of the American Revolutionary War every January 14. This day marks the Confederation Congress’s ratification of the Treaty of Paris in 1784, formally establishing the United States as an independent nation. Reflect on this pivotal moment in history, learn about the founding fathers, and explore its enduring legacy.

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Expected Ratification Day Deals

As a day of civic and historical reflection, Ratification Day is not typically associated with commercial deals or promotions. Instead, focus shifts to educational initiatives and supporting organizations dedicated to American history and veterans. Consider donating to the National Archives Foundation or the American Legion. Historical sites like Mount Vernon and Colonial Williamsburg may offer special programming or virtual tours. We will update this page with confirmed live events and educational resources as January approaches.

Platform Guide for Ratification Day

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Mention @NatlToday and use #RatificationDay. Share historical facts, quotes from founding fathers, or discuss the treaty’s impact.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #RatificationDay. Post about local historical events or share educational resources on the Revolutionary War.

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #RatificationDay. Discuss leadership lessons from the founding era or the principles of governance established.

Ratification Day Hero

John Jay

John Jay (1745–1829) was an American statesman, patriot, diplomat, and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. He served as the first Chief Justice of the United States and was a key negotiator of the Treaty of Paris, which officially ended the American Revolutionary War. His diplomatic skills were instrumental in securing favorable terms for the newly independent nation.

History of Ratification Day

The American Revolutionary War, popularly called the American War of Independence or the Revolutionary War, was started by representatives from 13 British American colonies. From April 19, 1775, through September 3, 1783, it lasted for over eight years.

Congress issued a declaration of a “cessation of arms” against Great Britain on April 11, 1783, which was affirmed four days later. On September 3, 1783, representatives from the United States and Britain signed the Treaty of Paris, declaring the United States a “free, sovereign, and independent” nation.

Congress met at the Maryland State House in Annapolis, on December 13, 1783, to ratify the Treaty of Paris. Only seven of the thirteen states were able to assemble the minimum number of representatives until mid-January due to the harsh winter of 1783-1784, which was marked by intense cold, ice storms, and snowstorms. Because only one delegate from each of New Hampshire and South Carolina had arrived, they were unable to vote. There were no representatives from New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, or Georgia present, so they were unable to vote as well.

By January 13, two delegates from Connecticut arrived, granting Connecticut the opportunity to vote on the treaty and raising the total number of states eligible to vote to eight. A delegate from New Jersey also arrived. The next day, Richard Beresford, a second delegate from South Carolina, arrived, and the vote could be cast. The Treaty of Paris was ratified by the United States Congress on January 14, 1784, widely known as Ratification Day.

We celebrate this observance to mark the end of the American War of Independence. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of all those who contributed to creating an independent nation.

Ratification Day timeline

1775

The American Revolutionary War Begins

The United States and Britain go to war.

1783

A Ceasefire is Called

Congress issues a "cessation of arms" against Great Britain on April 11.

1783

Congress Gathers to Ratify the Peace Treaty

Congress meets at the Maryland State House in Annapolis, on December 13 to ratify the Treaty of Paris.

1784

Ratification Day

The Treaty of Paris is ratified by the United States Congress on January 14.

How Businesses Can Celebrate Ratification Day

Local businesses can honor Ratification Day by supporting educational initiatives and promoting civic engagement. Consider partnering with local historical societies or libraries to host discussions or displays about the Treaty of Paris and its impact. Retailers could highlight books on American history or offer discounts to veterans and active military personnel. Restaurants might feature historically inspired dishes or share facts about the era on their menus, encouraging reflection on this foundational moment.

Ratification Day FAQs

When is Ratification Day?

In 2027, Ratification Day will be observed on Friday, January 14, providing an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s founding principles as the week concludes.

How many states ratified the Treaty of Paris?

The Treaty of Paris required the approval of at least nine states to become binding. In 1784, delegates from nine states were present to cast their votes for ratification, solidifying the peace.

What was the significance of the Treaty of Paris?

Beyond ending hostilities, the Treaty of Paris was crucial for establishing the United States on the global stage. It secured vast new territories for the fledgling nation and laid the groundwork for future expansion and governance.

Is Ratification Day a federal holiday?

Despite its profound historical importance, Ratification Day remains an observance rather than a public holiday. It offers a moment for civic education and reflection on the nation’s origins.

How to Celebrate Ratification Day

Visit the Museum of the American Revolution
Visiting the Museum of the American Revolution is among the best ways to celebrate Ratification Day. Browse through war memorabilia and learn more about the conflict.
Visit the Maryland State House
The Maryland State House hosts an event every year on Ratification Day. See the Old Senate Chamber where the treaty was ratified.
Fly the flag
Fly the same flag that was flown over the State House on Ratification Day. That flag is still flown there every year.

5 Facts About The American Revolution That Will Blow Your Mind

Lost at sea
It took two months for the treaty to make its way back to Britain.
The trifecta
Three separate messengers were used to deliver three copies of the ratified treaty to Britain.
Higher calling
George Washington, the first President, dropped out of school when he was 14 years old.
The shot heard around the world
On April 19, 1775, the "shot heard around the world" was fired, marking the start of the American Revolution.
An urgent summons
South Carolina's Richard Beresford had to travel from his hospital bed in Philadelphia for the ratification vote.

Why We Love Ratification Day

It’s an important part of American history
Ratification Day celebrates a crucial part of American history. This important event celebrates the free spirit and bravery that defines the nation to this day.
It’s a celebration of our independence
Ratification Day gives us the opportunity to mark our liberation from British rule. On this day in 1784, we became an independent nation.
For posterity
Ratification Day will continue to serve as an inspiration to future generations. The struggles and triumphs of the past generations will bolster the passion of those to come.