Early History and Settlement

The area now known as Rhode Island was originally home to the Narragansett people. Dutch explorers arrived in the early 1600s, naming it "Roodt Eylandt" or "red island." In 1636, Roger Williams founded Providence as a place for religious freedom, setting it apart from the Puritan colonies of Massachusetts. By 1647, Providence, Newport, Warwick, and Portsmouth united to form the colony of Rhode Island.

The Landing of Roger Williams - Alonzo Chappel (1857)

Colonial Era and the American Revolution

Rhode Island’s coastal location made it a hub for agriculture and trade in the 17th century. The colony became an active participant in the fight against British rule, declaring independence on May 4, 1776—two months before the Declaration of Independence. The Battle of Rhode Island was among its notable Revolutionary War contributions.

Scene from the Battle of Rhode Island, also called the Battle of Newport (1778)

Industrial Growth in the 19th Century

As the 19th century progressed, Rhode Island’s economy shifted from farming to manufacturing. Water power and transportation networks supported mills and factories, making the state famous for textiles and jewelry production. Many residents worked in these industries.

Economic Changes in the 20th Century and Today

Manufacturing declined in the 20th century, leading to a diversified economy that now includes major companies such as Textron and Hasbro. The service sector, finance, and healthcare play significant roles in the state’s modern economy.

Discussion Questions

1. Why did Roger Williams establish Providence, and how was it different from neighboring colonies?
2. What advantages did Rhode Island’s coastal location provide during its early history?
3. Why was Rhode Island the first colony to declare independence from Britain?
4. How did the shift from agriculture to manufacturing affect Rhode Island in the 19th century?

Glossary

• Narragansett people – Indigenous tribe originally inhabiting the area now called Rhode Island.
• Roodt Eylandt – Dutch name meaning “red island.”
• Religious freedom – The right to practice any religion without government interference.
• Battle of Rhode Island – A key 1778 Revolutionary War battle fought in the state.
• Textiles – Fabrics or cloth produced by weaving or knitting fibers.

Rhode Island History Timeline

• Early 1600s – Dutch explorers visit and name the area “Roodt Eylandt.”
• 1636 – Roger Williams founds Providence for religious freedom.
• 1647 – Providence, Newport, Warwick, and Portsmouth unite to form the colony of Rhode Island.
• May 4, 1776 – Rhode Island declares independence from Britain.
• 1778 – Battle of Rhode Island takes place.
• 1790 – Rhode Island becomes the last of the 13 colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
• Early 1800s – Growth of mills and textile factories.
• Mid-1800s – Jewelry manufacturing becomes a major industry.
• Late 1800s – Industrial expansion continues with improved transportation.
• Early 1900s – Manufacturing remains dominant in the state’s economy.
• Mid-1900s – Decline of manufacturing industries begins.
• Late 1900s – Service sector, finance, and healthcare grow in importance.
• 2000s – Rhode Island continues to diversify its economy with major corporations and tourism.