The Constitution needed approval by how many states?

The Constitution required the approval of nine states to become effective. This decision was rooted in the Articles of Confederation, which emphasized the need for a significant consensus to validate fundamental changes to the government structure. By setting the threshold at nine, the framers aimed to strike a balance that would both allow for sufficient support and ensure that the Constitution would not be held up by dissenting voices among the states.

This requirement was particularly significant during the ratification debates, as it ensured that a majority rather than a unanimous agreement was required, making it more feasible for the document to be ratified amidst differing opinions of the states. The goal was to create a functional national government while still respecting state sovereignty and diversity of thought.