Rhode Island Independence Day – May 4, 2024

History
Timeline
FAQs
Importance
Observe

Rhode Island Independence Day is on May 4. It is a day to commemorate the independence of Rhode Island making it the first sovereign and independent state in the western world. Rhode Island was the center of a triage trade between rum, slaves, and molasses in the 1700s. It was a British colony back in those days. Rhode Island did not find British policies matching its expectation. The Sugar Act of 1764 was especially not well received in the area. The state has prosperous ports which made fortunes from trading. Eventually, on May 4, 1776, The General Assembly of the Colony of Rhode Island declared independence from Great Britain.

History of Rhode Island Independence Day

Rhode Island is an American state off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean on the Northeastern borders of the U.S., which is famous for fine jewelry. It is officially known as the State of Rhode Island. Rhode Island is the smallest state in the U.S. by area, but it is also the second-most densely populated state in the nation. The state shares its borders with Connecticut and Massachusetts.

Rhode Island is a unique state by many standards. It was the first to declare itself independent from Great Britain in 1776. Narragansett Bay in the Rhode Islands was home to native American people for thousands of years. The early 17th century brought English settlers to the land. Roger Williams bought land from local tribes and established the province in 1636. He was fleeing from religious persecution and dreamed of establishing a secular settlement. Rhode Island is, in a way, the only state that was created by a refugee. The place soon became a haven for social outcasts and people fleeing religious and political persecution.

Rhode Island soon got the moniker Rogue’s Island. The community that formed in the region favored free thoughts and tolerance. They were the first to call for a Continental Congress. Rhode Island was a key power in the American revolution supplying 25,236 soldiers in response to President Lincon’s request. They also utilized their industrial might to support the civil war efforts. Even during the world wars, around 28,817 soldiers were sent from Rhode Island.

Rhode Island Independence Day timeline

1636 — 1644

A New Colony

R.Williams establishes the Providence Plantatopm Settlement that would become Rhode Island.

1647

New Rights

The colonies of Warwick, Newport, and Portsmouth establish a system for Providence Plantation that affirms the rights of its citizens.

1675 — 1676

War Breaks Out

War breaks out between natives and new settlers lasting for 14 months and killing thousands of native people.

1699

Quakers Come Into Action

Quakers, also known as The Society of Friends, create Newport's Great Friends Meeting House.

Rhode Island Independence Day FAQs

Is Rhode Island the first colony?

Rhode Island was the first colony to renounce its allegiance to King George III on May 4, 1776.

Why is it called Rhode Island if it isn't an island?

Rhode Island was named by Dutch explorer Adrian Block. It was originally ‘Roodt Eylandt’ meaning the red island. The name was later changed when the British came.

When did slavery end in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island abolished slavery in 1652.

How to Observe Rhode Island Independence Day

Read about Rhode Island history
Rhode Island has a rich and interesting history. Use this day to read about the history of this state.
List the achievements of Rhode Island
People in Rhode Island are amazing. Their achievements are countless. Let us create a list of some of the most amazing achievements and share them on social media.
Share facts about Rhode Island
We have listed some of the amazing facts about Rhode Island. Share them with your friends on social media.

5 Facts About Rhode Island That You Should Know

The U.S. Open
The U.S. Open started in Newport, Rhode Island at what is now The International Tennis Hall of Fame.
The first synagogue
Tuoro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the United States, is in Rhode Island.
First to abolish slavery
Rhode Island is the first state to abolish slavery.
The oldest operating restaurant
The White Horse Tavern in Newport is the oldest operating restaurant in the United States.
Alcohol in supermarkets
The 18th amendment is never ratified in Rhode Island, but we cannot buy alcohol from the supermarkets there.

Why Rhode Island Independence Day is Important

It’s one of the oldest states
Rhode Island was the first state to renounce its allegiance to Great Britain. We love the tales of freedom and bravery of the state.
First to abolish slavery
As we unanimously hate slavery, Rhode Island was the first state to abolish slavery. We love that.
They made amazing contributions to the nation
Rhode Island contributed heavily to the nation. They were the first to send troops to support President Lincoln, they provided heavily for the world wars. We appreciate and admire the contributions of the state.