Introduction
About This Research Guide
This guide is designed to help you find information about the U.S. Constitution, Constitution Day, our branches of government, legal research, and the State of Illinois. In addition to the topic headings, look for additional information under the above tabs marked with an arrow - Constitution Day and Constitution.
About Constitution Day
On September 17, 1787, the final draft of the United States Constitution was signed by 39 delegates. The document was then sent to the states for ratification, and went into effect on June 21, 1788 when New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify the Constitution.
Constitution Day and Citizenship Day are observed each year on September 17 to commemorate the signing of the Constitution and “recognize all who, by coming of age or by naturalization, have become citizens.”
Background information
- Constitution Day Resources - THOMASThe Library of Congress has compiled a variety of materials from across its collections. Explore these rich resources and features to learn more about one of America’s most important documents.
- U.S. Constitution Workshop - NARAThe education team of the National Archives and Records Administration is pleased to present, for the first time, a self-service online version of our popular U. S. Constitution Workshop!