Ratification Day on January 14
Ratification Day is celebrated annually on January 14. This day is used to commemorate the ratification of the Treaty of Paris by the Confederation Congress. The Treaty of Paris ended the Revolutionary War and established the United States as an independent nation.
The American Revolutionary War is also called the American War of Independence and the Revolutionary War. The war began with representatives from 13 British American colonies and took place from April 19, 1775, to September 3, 1783, and lasted for over 8 years.
On April 11, 1783, Congress issued a declaration of a cessation of arms against Great Britain, which was affirmed four days later. Then, on September 3, 1783, representatives from the United States and Great Britain signed the Treaty of Paris, which stated that the United States was a “free, sovereign, and independent nation.” Members of Congress planned on ratifying the treaty on December 13, 1783, but severe winter weather prevented representatives from gathering. That is why it took until January 14 for The Treaty of Paris to be ratified.
The Treaty of Paris marks the end of a violent and deadly war. It also declared the United States an independent nation. That is why Ratification Day is a celebratory occasion. However, the day can also be used as a time to reflect on the lives lost because of the various battles that took place over the 8+ years of war.
If you want to spend Ratification Day giving back to your local community, consider getting involved with SRQ Vets. We are an organization of local veterans serving our fellow local veterans. We connect individuals to mental health resources, provide home improvements, assist with joblessness and education, and other veteran support services. You can contact us by giving us a call at 941-777-8387 or by donating on our website.
