New Hampshire’s Early Settlement

New Hampshire is located in the northeastern United States and has a deep history that traces back to the early 1600s. In 1623, Captain John Mason, an Englishman, received a charter for the land from the Council for New England. He named it after Hampshire County in England, and in 1629, established the first permanent settlement at Portsmouth. The colony’s coastal location made it valuable for fishing and shipbuilding, industries that remained central for centuries.

Revolutionary Era

By the mid-1700s, New Hampshire became a key player in the American Revolution. Portsmouth served as a hub of revolutionary activity, and many residents supported the war effort. In 1788, New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, making it the first to do so after its adoption, a milestone in American history.

Industrial Growth in the 19th Century

As the 19th century unfolded, New Hampshire shifted from fishing and shipbuilding toward manufacturing. Its rivers provided power for mills, leading to booming textile and factory industries. Immigrants from Ireland, France, and Canada fueled this workforce, helping transform the state’s economy.

Modern Era and Economy

In the 20th century, tourism and recreation became increasingly important, with forests and mountains drawing visitors. At the same time, technology and manufacturing continued to expand. Today, New Hampshire hosts major companies such as BAE Systems and Dell Technologies, while still embracing its historic traditions.

Discussion Questions

1. Why was Portsmouth an important location in New Hampshire’s early history?
2. How did New Hampshire’s role in the American Revolution influence its identity?
3. What factors helped New Hampshire shift from fishing and shipbuilding to manufacturing?
4. In what ways has tourism shaped New Hampshire’s modern economy?

Glossary

• Charter: A legal document granting rights or land.
• Ratify: To formally approve or confirm.
• Manufacturing: The production of goods using machinery.
• Immigrant: A person who comes to live in a new country.

Timeline of New Hampshire History

• 1623 – Captain John Mason receives charter for New Hampshire.
• 1629 – Portsmouth, the first permanent settlement, is founded.
• 1679 – New Hampshire becomes a separate royal province.
• 1741 – New Hampshire gains its first official governor.
• 1774 – Colonists raid Fort William and Mary in Portsmouth for arms.
• 1776 – New Hampshire adopts the first state constitution in America.
• 1788 – Becomes the ninth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
• 1808 – State capital established at Concord.
• 1840s – Irish and French Canadian immigrants arrive to work in mills.
• 1861–1865 – New Hampshire soldiers fight in the Civil War.
• 1900s – Tourism grows as White Mountains attract visitors.
• 1944 – Bretton Woods Conference held, shaping world financial systems.
• 1980s – Expansion of high-tech manufacturing.
• Today – State economy balances technology, tourism, and historic industries.