The History of Connecticut

Connecticut was founded in the 1630s by English settlers, including Thomas Hooker, who established the Fundamental Orders, one of the first written constitutions in America. It played an important role in the American Revolution, contributing supplies, troops, and political leadership.

Pequot Nation

The Pequot Nation is a Native American tribe from southeastern Connecticut, historically known for their maritime skills, agriculture, and trade. They played a central role in early colonial conflicts, including the Pequot War of 1636–1638, which greatly impacted their population and territory.

Connecticut Colony

The Connecticut Colony was founded in the 1630s by Puritans seeking greater religious and political freedom. It became known for the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut, one of the first written constitutions in the New World, which established a representative government.

Pequot War

The Pequot War (1636–1638) was a conflict between the Pequot tribe and English colonists allied with other Native American groups. It ended with the near destruction of the Pequot people and the loss of most of their lands.

The Founding of New Haven

New Haven was founded in 1638 by English Puritans led by John Davenport and Theophilus Eaton, seeking to create a religious community based on strict biblical principles. Its planned layout included a central green and orderly streets, reflecting the settlers’ vision of a moral and well-organized society.

Fundamental Orders of Connecticut

The Fundamental Orders of Connecticut, adopted in 1639, is considered one of the first written constitutions in America. It established a framework for self-government that influenced later colonial and U.S. governmental structures.

Life in Puritan New England

Life in Puritan New England centered on strict religious beliefs, hard work, and community cooperation. Town life revolved around the church, and laws often enforced moral behavior based on Puritan values.

Revolutionary War

The American Revolutionary War (1775–1783) was a conflict between the thirteen American colonies and Great Britain, resulting in the colonies gaining independence. It began with growing tensions over British taxation and governance and ended with the Treaty of Paris, which recognized the United States as a sovereign nation.

The Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence is a historic document written in 1776 that explained why the American colonies chose to break away from British rule. It stated that all people have rights and that governments must have the consent of the governed to be legitimate.

Civil War

The American Civil War (1861–1865) was fought between the Northern states (Union) and the Southern states that seceded to form the Confederacy, primarily over the issues of slavery and states’ rights. It resulted in the preservation of the Union and the abolition of slavery, but at the cost of over 600,000 lives.