Why Is Virginia Called a Commonwealth Instead of a State?
Quick Answer
Virginia is called a commonwealth because, like all of the United States, its government is comprised of and run by the people, as opposed to rule by a monarch. In U.S. law, there really isn’t a difference between the meanings of “commonwealth” and “state.”
Continue ReadingFull Answer
The claim by the state of Virginia that supreme power is vested in the people dates back to the Interegnum in England, 1649-1660, when Oliver Cromwell established the Commonwealth of England. When Virginia again became a royal colony in 1660 with the reign of Charles II, it lost its distinction as a commonwealth. In 1776 when it adopted its first constitution, Virginia again declared itself a sovereign state, establishing an independent government for the common good or “weal.” The state has been designated a commonwealth ever since.
In actual practice in the United States, there is no difference between a commonwealth and a state. Both are governed by the people. Citizens of each have equal rights and responsibilities under the U.S. Constitution, and the states reserve the same powers to themselves as all other states. Because governance by the people is at the core of U.S. democracy and the designation of commonwealth was adopted so early, Virginia and the three states that claim the status – Kentucky, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania – are allowed to keep it.
Learn more about The SouthRelated Questions
-
Q:
How Did Virginia Become a State?
A: Virginia became a state on June 25, 1788, by ratifying the United States Constitution, written primarily by Virginian James Madison. Virginia was the 10th ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Is the Major Industry of West Virginia?
A: Coal has traditionally been West Virginia's leading industry, but chemical manufacturing and biotech also make up a significant portion of the state's econ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Are Some Interesting Facts About Virginia?
A: Interesting facts about Virginia include that it is the birthplace of eight American presidents and six first ladies and that the dogwood is both the state... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Are Some Facts That Are Unique to the State of West Virginia?
A: In addition to its distinction of being the only region in the United States to achieve statehood by presidential proclamation, West Virginia can boast of ... Full Answer >Filed Under:
You May Also Like
-
Q:
What Kind of Stores Are in Sarasota, Florida?
-
Q:
Is There a Way to Purchase Old Street Signs From the State?
-
Q:
What Are Some Fun Facts About Georgia?
-
Q:
Where Can You Find Official Information on the Fort Eustis Army Base in Virginia?
-
Q:
In Which State Are Most Nonmetals?
-
Q:
How Do You Read a Map of Counties in Virginia?
