What fraction of states is required for an amendment's ratification in the U.S. Constitution?

To amend the U.S. Constitution, the requirement for ratification is set at three-fourths of the states. This means that out of the fifty states, thirty-eight must approve an amendment for it to become law. This high threshold ensures that amendments reflect a broad consensus across the country, promoting stability and continuity in the constitutional framework.

The requirement for three-fourths of the states is rooted in the desire to prevent rash or hasty changes to the foundational legal document of the nation. By requiring such a significant majority, the framers intended to protect the Constitution from frequent alterations and maintain its integrity over time. This contrasts with other options, which suggest lower thresholds that do not capture the same level of national agreement.