Four American states proudly maintain the title “Commonwealth” instead of “State,” preserving a revolutionary-era tradition that emphasized government serving the people rather than ruling over them.
Historical Foundation of the Commonwealth Designation
The Commonwealth designation stems from mid-15th century political philosophy, gaining prominence through the works of John Locke and Thomas Hobbes during the 17th century. These foundational thinkers emphasized that legitimate government derives its authority from serving the common good of its citizens. The concept gained additional weight following the execution of England’s King Charles I in 1649, when political theorists sought alternatives to monarchical rule that prioritized collective welfare over royal authority.
Four States Preserve Revolutionary Principles
Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Virginia, and Kentucky officially style themselves as commonwealths rather than states, maintaining this distinction since their founding periods. Virginia and Massachusetts adopted the commonwealth designation during the Revolutionary War era, reflecting their commitment to self-governance and rejection of monarchical systems. Pennsylvania followed suit, while Kentucky inherited the designation when it separated from Virginia in 1792. This terminology represents more than ceremonial tradition—it embodies the founding principle that government exists to serve citizens rather than control them.
The commonwealth concept differs significantly from the British Commonwealth, which encompasses former British Empire territories. American commonwealths emphasize internal governance philosophy rather than international associations. These four states use the designation to highlight their commitment to representative democracy and limited government principles that conservatives champion today. The term serves as a constitutional reminder that political power flows from the people upward, not from government downward.
Modern Significance for Constitutional Governance
Today’s commonwealth designation reinforces core conservative principles about government’s proper role in American society. The term “commonwealth” literally means “common good” or “public welfare,” emphasizing that legitimate government power exists solely to protect citizens’ rights and freedoms. This philosophy aligns perfectly with constitutional principles limiting federal overreach and preserving state sovereignty. When government officials in these commonwealths take office, they swear to serve the commonwealth—a linguistic reminder that they work for the people, not the other way around.
The preservation of commonwealth terminology demonstrates how language shapes political culture and expectations. These four states maintain a linguistic connection to America’s founding principles, when colonists rejected tyrannical government and established systems prioritizing individual liberty. In an era of expanding federal bureaucracy and government overreach, the commonwealth designation serves as a daily reminder that true American governance means serving citizens’ interests rather than accumulating political power.