Events in 1787

May 25, 1787

Electoral College Establishment

The Electoral College, established during the Constitutional Convention of 1787, was created as a compromise solution for presidential elections in the United States, fundamentally changing how Americans would select their president.

May 25, 1787

Constitutional Convention of 1787

The Constitutional Convention of 1787 was a pivotal gathering in Philadelphia where 55 delegates from 12 states met to draft the United States Constitution, establishing a new system of federal government to replace the Articles of Confederation.

August 22, 1787

First American Steamboat

John Fitch demonstrated the first successful steamboat in America on the Delaware River, leading to a revolution in maritime transportation. The vessel could carry 30 passengers and travel at 3 mph upstream.

September 17, 1787

George Washington Signs the Constitution

George Washington, as president of the Constitutional Convention, became the first to sign the United States Constitution at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, marking a pivotal moment in American history.

September 17, 1787

Signing of the U.S. Constitution

The Constitutional Convention concluded on September 17, 1787, when 39 delegates signed the United States Constitution at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, establishing a new framework for American governance after four months of intense deliberation.