Providence Live Cam

The capital city of the U.S. state of Rhode Island



History

Providence is the capital and largest city of the state of Rhode Island in the United States. The history of Providence dates back to the early colonial period and is closely tied to the history of Rhode Island itself. Here's an overview of the Providence's history:

  • Colonial Era: Providence was founded in 1636 by Roger Williams, a theologian and religious exile from the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Williams sought a place where he could establish a colony with religious freedom and tolerance. He purchased land from the Narragansett Native American tribe and named the settlement "Providence Plantations." The town grew slowly and became a center for trade and commerce.
  • Industrial Revolution: In the late 18th century, Providence became a hub of industrialization and played a significant role in the American Industrial Revolution. The city's location along the Providence River and its access to natural resources like waterpower and nearby ports contributed to its growth. Industries such as textiles, manufacturing, and jewelry production thrived, and Providence became known as the "Jewelry Capital of the World."