Ratification Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Ratification Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Ratification Day is celebrated on January 14th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Ratification Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as cool facts you should know about Ratification Day.

📅 What day is Ratification Day 2024?

In 2024, Ratification Day is on Saturday, January 14th. It is the 2nd Saturday in January; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all the fun details and facts about January 14, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

January 14th is a significant day in the United States as it commemorates the Confederation Congress’s acceptance of the Treaty of Paris. This treaty marked the end of the Revolutionary War and solidified America’s status as an independent country. Although there were still several steps to be taken, such as the treaty’s approval in Paris, this day holds importance as it was when the US Congress officially declared the war to be over.

📜 Ratification Day History

On April 11, 1783, Congress gave its approval for a proclamation of “cessation of arms” against the United Kingdom, which was officially ratified four days later. Then, on September 3, 1783, the Treaty of Paris was signed by representatives from the United States and Britain, declaring the United States to be a “free, sovereign, and independent” nation.

However, it wasn’t until December 13, 1783, that Congress gathered at the Maryland State House in Annapolis to discuss and approve the Treaty of Paris. The harsh winter weather made it difficult for all the states to gather the required number of representatives until mid-January. Due to this, only seven out of the thirteen states were able to vote, as New Hampshire and South Carolina didn’t have enough delegates present, and representatives from New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Georgia were absent.

Eventually, by January 13, two Connecticut delegates arrived, allowing them to vote, bringing the total number of states eligible to vote to eight. A delegate from New Jersey also arrived, and the following day, Richard Beresford, a second South Carolina delegate, made it in time for the vote. On January 14, 1784, the United States Congress finally ratified the Treaty of Paris, which became known as Ratification Day.

This holiday is now observed to commemorate the end of the American Revolutionary War and to honor all those who played a role in securing the nation’s independence.

✅ Ratification Day Facts

🔖 The trifecta
Three couriers were sent to deliver three duplicates of the authorized agreement to the United Kingdom.

🔖 Higher calling
George Washington, the inaugural President of the United States, left formal education at the age of 14.

🔖 Lost at sea
The treaty was sent back to Britain after a period of two months.

👍 Why Is Ratification Day Important

Ratification Day commemorates an important period in American history. This significant event commemorates the nation’s free spirit and fortitude to this day.

Ratification Day allows us to commemorate our independence from British domination. We gained our independence on this day in 1784.

Future generations will be inspired by the events of Ratification Day. The difficulties and successes of previous generations will energize those who follow.

🙂 How To Observe Ratification Day

⚡ Fly the flag

⚡ Visit the Museum of the American Revolution
One of the best ways to celebrate Ratification Day is by visiting the Museum of the American Revolution. By exploring the exhibits showcasing war artifacts, you can gain a deeper understanding of the historical struggle.

⚡ Visit the Maryland State House
Fly the same flag that was flown over the State House on the day of statehood. Every year, that flag is flown there.

📅 When is Ratification Day?

See all 🔗 January holidays, including 🔗 Special Interest and other 🔗 American holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about Ratification Day. So be sure to check back soon.