Rhode Island covers a small area of only 1,214 miles making it smaller than any other state in America. This state is very important in America’s history as it is believed that this was where the industrial upheaval started. Furthermore, Rhode Island was among the original colonies that formed the American states.

Fact 1: The first person to be given a jailed for driving an automobile at high speed was handed his sentence in 1904 in Rhode Island.

Fact 2: The Rhode Island state hosted the first ever golf tournament in America. The event which attracted large crowds was held in 1895.

Fact 3: When other states endorsed prohibition, Rhode Island did not agree to this amendment and thus alcohol was never banned in this particular state.

Fact 4: Circus events were started in Rhode Island in 1774.

Fact 5: At the corrosion test location in Point Judith, material samples lay exposed outdoors for years with analysis being carried out regularly to establish the toll of the sun and ocean air.

Fact 6: The people of Rhode Island undertook the first military action in opposition to England by shooting down a ship and sinking it.

Fact 7: The founder of Rhode Island called Roger Williams is credited for establishing the first ever Baptist Church in 1638. However, the current structure was not built until 1775.

Fact 8: The famous era of industrial revolution is said to have started in Pawtucket, Rhode Island thanks to the construction and use of a water-driven cotton mill. This significant innovation was designed by Samuel Slater.

Fact 9: The oldest school house is found in Rhode Island, specifically in Portsmouth. It was constructed in 1716 to encourage literacy.

Fact 10: The first polo game that was played in America was in 1876 in Newport, Rhode Island.