What is the process for applying for statehood?

Question

Like in the days when the states were becomin states...what is the process that they have to go through to become a state?

Answer 1

Congress organizes a territory. When the population is large enough, they petition Congress for statehood. Congress votes and the President signs. The new state drafts a consitution, holds elections. In some cases it was easy in others like Utah, there was political opposition. Today there is divided opinion about Puerto Rico.