Connecticut

Connecticut gets its name from its original residents, the Algonquin Indians, who called it "Quinnehtukqut," meaning "land on the long tidal river." The Euro-American experience began when the colony of Connecticut was founded in 1636 by Puritans fleeing religious persecution in England. One of the original thirteen British colonies, the colony participated in the American Revolution of 1776, which transformed the colonies into states. It prospered quietly as an agricultural community until Eli Whitney (famous for inventing the cotton gin) introduced mass production to the state. A textile manufacturing boom followed and Connecticut suddenly became an industrial leader, famous for its machine-made military products.

Today, Connecticut offers visitors insight into New England's distinguished colonial history. The seaside town of Mystic features a reconstructed 19th-century seaport that brings Connecticut's seafaring and trading history to life. Historic landmarks such as Hartford's Old State House provide evidence of Connecticut's important political past. For the outdoors enthusiast, Connecticut's rivers and Atlantic coastline are excellent for canoeing, fishing, hiking and other pastimes. And for students, Connecticut is home to Yale University, one of America's most prestigious academic institutions.