In a significant move towards the formation of a united nation, South Carolina convened its ratifying convention in the city of Charleston, where delegates gathered to discuss the merits of the newly drafted United States Constitution. The convention began on May 12 and culminated in the ratification on May 23, 1788. A total of 149 delegates attended, representing a diverse range of opinions. Proponents of the Constitution emphasized the need for a stronger federal government to address issues stemming from the Articles of Confederation, which had shown weaknesses, such as the inability to levy taxes and maintain order among the states. They argued that unifying under a federal structure would enhance security and economic stability.

During the deliberations, key figures such as John Rutledge and Charles Cotesworth Pinckney emerged as strong advocates for ratification, while some delegates expressed concerns over the potential for federal overreach and the lack of a Bill of Rights. Ultimately, after extensive debates, the Constitution received a majority vote in favor, with 149 delegates voting to ratify against 73 opposing.

The ratification had immediate implications for the governance of South Carolina and the nation, as it paved the way for the Constitution to go into effect following the nine-state minimum requirement. This represented a crucial step towards creating a more cohesive political entity out of the independent states that had emerged from the Revolutionary War. By aligning with the Constitution, South Carolina joined the ranks of states willing to embrace federal authority, setting a precedent for future discussions and amendments regarding civil liberties.