How many original states were there in the United States?

The United States was originally formed with thirteen states. These states declared independence from Great Britain in 1776 and later became the first states in the Union when the U.S. Constitution was ratified. The thirteen original states are Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island. This foundational number is crucial for understanding the early history of the United States and the development of its government and laws. The significance of these original states also extends to the establishment of a federal system and the advancement of democratic principles in America.