Question

Why did New York, Massachusetts, Virginia, and Rhode Island wait so long to ratify the Constitution?

Answer 1

Because they wanted a bill of rights to be added to the constitution

Answer 2

Answer:

  They wanted to add the Bill of Rights.

Explanation:

  These states refused to ratify the U.S. Constitution because they considered that it failed to reserve undelegated power to the States, lacked protection to the basic political rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and press. In February of 1788, these states signed a compromise under which they would ratify the Constitution with the assurance that amendments were immediately proposed.

  The United States Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution. It adds specific guarantees of personal and political rights and freedoms, a clear limitation on the government´s power in judicial and other proceedings. And an explicit declaration of federalism, all powers not granted to the U.S. Congress were reserved for the States or the people.

  I hope this answer helps you.