10 Ways Rhode Island Changed America

Independence

Rhode Island was the first colony to declare independence from Great Britain.

The smallest state in the union showed their revolutionary side by setting fire to the Gaspée, a British customs schooner.

American Industrial Revolution

Pawtucket is the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution.

The Slater Mill, built in 1793 on the banks of the Blackstone River, was the first fully mechanized cotton-spinning mill in America.

Religious Freedom

Rhode Island was founded by Roger Williams as a haven for religious freedom.

Touro Synagogue, established in 1763, is the oldest surviving Jewish synagogue building in North America.

Patriotism

George Michael Cohan, born on July 3, 1878, in Providence.

A composer, lyricist, and playwright, Cohan is best known for writing "The Yankee Doodle Boy", "You're a Grand Old Flag", and "Over There".

Art

Rhode Island was the birthplace and home of painter Gilbert Stuart.

In his lifetime, Stuart produced portraits of over 1,000 people, including the first six Presidents of the United States.

Higher Education

Brown University is the third oldest institution of higher education in New England.

This year, the university celebrated 250 years of academic excellence.

Toys

Hasbro Inc., whose corporate headquarters are located in Pawtucket, is the third largest toy company in the world.

The best known toys of Hasbro include G.I Joe, My Little Pony, and Mr. Potato Head.

Maritime Industry

Nathanael Greene Herreshoff was the founder of Herreshoff Manufacturing.

Herreshoff revolutionized yacht design, and produced a succession of undefeated America's Cup defenders between 1893-1920.

Herreshoff's skill earned him the nickname of "the Wizard of Bristol."

Literature

Horror fiction writer H.P. Lovecraft was born in Providence in 1890 and lived the majority of his life here.

Lovecraft 's last residence in Providence before his death was used as inspiration in his short story, "The Haunter of the Dark".

Manufacturing

Rhode Island's influence in manufacturing reached the far corners of the world.

The fine craftsmanship of Gorham Silver, which was founded in Providence in 1831, was highly prized.