Why It Matters: Strengthening the Political Foundation of a New Republic In the winter of 1788, as the United States was still learning how to govern itself, Connecticut quietly took a decisive step that helped stabilize a fragile new nation. On January 9, 1788, Connecticut ratified the U.S. Constitution, becoming […]
Tag: American democracy
The Six-Hour Transition: How the White House Staff Swiftly Moves One President Out and Another In on Inauguration Day
The peaceful transfer of power is one of the defining characteristics of American democracy. Every four years on January 20th, the nation witnesses the ceremonial transition of presidential leadership during the inauguration. While much attention is given to the public pageantry—the swearing-in ceremony, inaugural parade, and address—behind the scenes, an […]


