I-95 Construction Advisory:
A major improvement project is underway at the I-95 & SR896 interchange in Newark, Delaware, south of Wilmington. Travelers should expect delays or find alternate routes.
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Famous as the First State to ratify the Constitution, Delaware was born out of a conflict among three world powers for dominance of the Delaware Valley. From this beginning, the region developed a distinct character that tolerated diversity in religion and national origin, and valued independence.
The First State National Historical Park's mission is to convey the crucial role Delaware played in the country's founding, from the first settlement in Lewes to the ratification of the Constitution in December 1787.
Visit These First State National Historic Park Locations
Famous as the First State to ratify the Constitution, Delaware was born out of a conflict among three world powers for dominance of the Delaware Valley. From this beginning, the region developed a distinct character that tolerated diversity in religion and national origin, and valued independence.
The First State National Historical Park's mission is to convey the crucial role Delaware played in the country's founding, from the first settlement in Lewes to the ratification of the Constitution in December 1787.
Initially, it was the setting for imperial conflicts as the Netherlands, Sweden, and England struggled for control of the Delaware Valley. By the time William Penn arrived in 1682, the spirit of independence had been firmly established in his "Three Lower Counties on the Delaware". In 1704, representatives from the Counties demanded and were granted their own Assembly. In 1776, that separation became complete; the Counties cut all ties with Pennsylvania and Great Britain and declared the State of Delaware.