Rhode Island

Rhode Island

Rhode Island is a New England state bordered by Massachusetts to the north and east, the Atlantic Ocean to the south, and Connecticut to the west. It’s the least extensive state, in fact; it's just over half the size of Delaware, the second smallest state. The state is also the second most crowded after New Jersey; it ranks second in people per square mile. About one-sixth of the state's residents live in Providence, Rhode Island's capital and largest city. Rhode Island's landscape includes 36 islands. However, most of the state is part of the mainland of North America.

No one is sure where Rhode Island got its name. Some people believe that explorer Giovanni de Verrazano compared Block Island to the Greek Island of Rhodes in 1524. Others think the state was named "Roode Eylandt," meaning "Red Island," in 1614 by Dutch explorer Adriaen Block because of its red clay shores. Rhode Island's official nickname is "The Ocean State", a reference to the state's geography, since Rhode Island has several large bays and inlets that amount to about 14% of its total area.

Even though Rhode Island is the smallest state, it is one of the most industrialized. United States jewelry production started in the state and is still an important industry. Rhode Island is known for the fine silverware made there. Textiles, electronic equipment, rubber, and plastic are also manufactured in Rhode Island. The state is known for the Rhode Island Red, a famous breed of chicken.

The academics in Rhode Island are held in very high regard, and the state is home to the, prestigious Brown University, as well as the United States Naval War College.

List of colleges and universities in Rhode Island

Official Website of the State of Rhode Island

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