Providence, Rhode Island – The Capital of the Smallest US State

This is Providence, Rhode Island, the capital of the smallest state in the US. Despite its size, it has a big history: it was one of the original 13 colonies and the first to declare independence from Britain (yes, before 1776).

In 1636, Roger Williams was banished from the Massachusetts Bay Colony for his religious and political beliefs. He fled south and found land along the Seekonk and later the Providence River, where he founded a new settlement.

He named it “Providence” to express his gratitude for what he believed was God’s merciful providence in guiding him to a safe place. 

Rhode Island is a small state with a big personality.