A sweeping history of the state of Delaware.

Small in size but mighty in significance, Delaware earned its nickname "The First State" by boldly stepping into history on December 7, 1787—the first to ratify the new Constitution and set the United States on its path to nationhood. But Delaware's story reaches far beyond that pivotal moment.

In this captivating installment of the Hardy Histories series, Daniel Hardy uncovers the remarkable tale of a state that has consistently punched above its weight. From the Swedish and Dutch settlements along the Delaware River to the Underground Railroad stations that provided sanctuary for freedom seekers, from the rise of the DuPont industrial empire to the corporate haven that transformed American business, Delaware's influence on the nation far exceeds what its modest borders might suggest.

Hardy weaves together the stories of visionary leaders, determined immigrants, innovative entrepreneurs, and everyday citizens who shaped not just Delaware, but America itself. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, "The First State" reveals how this small Mid-Atlantic state became a laboratory for American democracy, commerce, and social progress.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a Delaware resident, or simply curious about the hidden stories that shaped our nation, "The First State" offers an engaging journey through centuries of American experience—proving that sometimes the smallest states cast the longest shadows.

Perfect for readers who enjoyed David McCullough's "1776" and fans of American regional history.