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13 Sep 2024
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Rhode Island
United States
11:12:12 PM
18 Nov 2024

Rhode Island Info

Abbreviation:
RI
State capital:
Providence
Population:
1,100,000
Largest city:
Providence (190,000)
State bird:
Rhode Island Red (Chicken)
State flower:
Violet
State tree:
Red Maple

Local facts

  • Rhode Island is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), which is Eastern Standard Time (EST, UTC-5) during the winter and Eastern Daylight Time (EDT, UTC-4) during the summer.
  • Rhode Island observes Daylight Saving Time. Clocks are set forward 1 hour in March to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT, UTC-4) and set back 1 hour in November to Eastern Standard Time (EST, UTC-5).
  • Rhode Island is 3 hours ahead of California, which is in the Pacific Time Zone. For example, when it is 12:00 PM, it is 9:00 AM in California (Pacific Time).
  • Rhode Island shares the Eastern Time Zone with several other states, including New York, Florida, and Georgia.
  • Major industries:

    Healthcare and Life Sciences: Has a robust healthcare sector, with renowned institutions such as Brown University’s medical school and Lifespan Health System.

    Tourism: Tourism is a significant part of the state’s economy, with Newport, Providence, and Block Island attracting visitors for their historic sites, beaches, and festivals.

    Manufacturing: The state has a rich manufacturing history, with industries such as jewelry, textiles, and machinery continuing to play a role in the economy.

    Financial Services: The state has a growing financial services sector, particularly in banking, insurance, and venture capital.

    Education and Research: It is home to prestigious institutions like Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, making education and research key contributors to the state’s economy.

  • Local trivia and geography:

    Geography: It is the smallest state in the U.S., yet it has over 400 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, making it a popular destination for boating and beach activities.

    Trivia: Known for being the last of the original 13 colonies to join the United States, doing so in 1790.

    Famous Landmarks: The state is home to the famous Cliff Walk in Newport, which offers stunning views of the ocean and historic mansions.

  • Cultural insights:

    Newport Mansions: Rhode Island, particularly Newport, is known for its Gilded Age mansions, built by wealthy families such as the Vanderbilts, which now serve as museums and landmarks.

    Cuisine: The state is famous for its seafood, particularly clam chowder, clam cakes, and the unique Rhode Island-style hot wieners.

    WaterFire: A famous outdoor art installation and performance held in Providence, WaterFire features bonfires set on the rivers of the city, accompanied by music and festivities.

    Political Activism: Has a history of political activism, being one of the first states to recognize women’s suffrage and supporting labor rights movements.

  • Local customs:

    Clam Bakes: A traditional New England social event where clams, lobsters, corn, and potatoes are cooked in a pit or steamer and served as a group meal.

    Fourth of July Celebrations: Newport hosts one of the largest Fourth of July celebrations, featuring fireworks, parades, and live entertainment.

    WaterFire Lighting: An annual tradition in Providence where bonfires are lit on the rivers in the downtown area, accompanied by music and creating a beautiful nighttime spectacle.

  • Historical context:

    Colonial History: Founded in 1636 by Roger Williams as a refuge for religious freedom and separation of church and state.

    Industrial Revolution: The state played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution, particularly in textile manufacturing, and is known as the birthplace of the American textile industry.

    Independence Movement: Rhode Island was the first colony to declare independence from Britain in 1776, though it was the last of the original 13 colonies to join the United States.