There were 13 original states. Name three.

Why This Matters

This question asks you to name three of the thirteen original states. You do not need to memorize all thirteen, just be ready to name any three. The thirteen original states were the colonies that declared independence from Britain in 1776 and formed the United States of America.

The thirteen original states are: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. These colonies were all located along the East Coast of North America. They stretched from New Hampshire in the north to Georgia in the south. Each colony had its own government, economy, and culture, but they came together to fight for independence during the American Revolution.

After winning the war, these thirteen states created the Constitution in 1787 to form a stronger national government. The first state to approve (ratify) the Constitution was Delaware, which is why Delaware is sometimes called "The First State." Understanding the original thirteen states is important because they are the foundation of the country. Today the United States has fifty states, but it all started with these thirteen colonies that decided to unite. On the USCIS test, you just need to name three, so pick three that are easy for you to remember and practice saying them out loud.

Key Facts

• There were thirteen original states, all along the East Coast
• They were former British colonies that declared independence in 1776
• Delaware was the first state to ratify the Constitution
• The thirteen states are: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia
• You only need to name three on the test

Common Mistakes

• Naming a state that was not one of the original thirteen, for example, California, Texas, or Florida were not original states
• Confusing states with cities, "Philadelphia" or "Boston" are cities, not states
• Only naming one or two states, you need to name three

Study Tip

Pick three states that are easiest for you to say and remember. Many people choose New York, Virginia, and Georgia because these names are short and commonly heard. Practice saying your three choices out loud several times. On test day, you will only need those three.