why was the ratification by New York and Virginia critical to the success of the Constitution

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Gave 2/3 majority of the 13 colonies.

The ratification by both New York and Virginia was critical to the success of the Constitution because they were two of the most influential and populous states at the time. Their approval of the Constitution was essential for it to become a legally binding document and establish a strong and united nation.

To understand why their ratification was crucial, it helps to know a bit of background information. After the Constitutional Convention in 1787, where the draft of the Constitution was created, the document faced significant opposition. Many feared that it would create a strong central government that could potentially endanger individual liberties. This led to debates between the Federalists, who supported the Constitution, and the Anti-Federalists, who opposed it.

The ratification process required at least nine out of thirteen states to approve the Constitution for it to come into effect. However, without the approval of influential states like New York and Virginia, it would be challenging to achieve this threshold. Here's how their ratification played a crucial role:

1. Influence: New York, being one of the most populous states, had a significant impact on the political landscape. It was the economic hub of the newly formed nation and a center for influential thinkers and political figures. Virginia, on the other hand, was a large and highly respected state led by prominent figures like George Washington and James Madison. Their support carried substantial weight and influence over other states' decisions.

2. Prestige and credibility: New York and Virginia's ratification added prestige and credibility to the Constitution. Their approval demonstrated that two important states with diverse interests and demographics found the Constitution acceptable. This helped sway public opinion and encouraged other states to give it serious consideration.

3. Addressing Anti-Federalist concerns: Both New York and Virginia had strong Anti-Federalist movements, with influential leaders like Patrick Henry, who expressed concerns about the Constitution's potential to infringe upon individual liberties. To ensure ratification, the Federalists had to address these concerns through compromise and promises of future amendments (such as the Bill of Rights). By persuading and winning over these two states, the Federalists effectively neutralized some of the most substantial opposition to the Constitution.

In conclusion, the ratification by New York and Virginia was critical to the success of the Constitution due to their influence, prestige, and ability to address Anti-Federalist concerns. Their approval helped create a broader consensus among the states, increasing the likelihood of achieving the necessary ratification threshold and establishing a strong, united nation.