Paul Cooney
AP American
Mr. Decarlo
September 30, 2006



1. Interpret the cartoon. What historical event/issue is being represented?
The ratification process of the Constitution began with Delaware, when the population of that state voted in approval of the new basis of our government. Delaware was the first to ratify the Constitution on December 7, 1787, as indicated in the cartoon with Delaware’s pillar being the fist from left to right. Pennsylvania followed suit on December 12 of the same year, completing the link between itself and Delaware. Notice the star just beneath the tied link, resembling one of the thirteen starts on the United State’s first flag.

2. What is the message that the cartoonist is trying to convey? Which side of the issue does he support?
The cartoonist is displaying the chronological order in which each of the thirteen states ratified the Constitution. More importantly, he is displaying the lagging states, North Carolina and Rhode Island. Both of these states were perfectly happy with the Articles of Confederation, more commonly known to the rest of the states as the “Articles of Confusion.” It is depicted that North Carolina is on its way towards standing firm and tall, on its way to ratifying the Constitution. Rhode Island was indeed the last to approve the constitution, as that state did not ratify it until May 29, 1790 a little less than three years after Delaware first signified their approval. The artist added a side note next the Rhode Island, “The foundation good- it may yet be saved.” Although Rhode Island’s pillar is in horrible condition, the cartoonist is optimistic that they will eventually ratify the Constitution.

3. What effect(s) did this cartoon have on American History? What were the results of this issue being addressed?
This cartoon must have put a great deal of pressure on Rhode Island, as they were the last state to ratify the Constitution. The cartoon was published in 1788, just one year before Rhode Island finally caved in. The note below the entire cartoon, “the federal edifice,” gives great meaning to the cartoon. The artist is basically satiating that once Rhode Island joins in, the solid foundation of the United States will be a huge edifice looming over the rest of the world.