1. On April 21, 1775, Rhode Island Governor Joseph Wanton issued a proclamation stating that the colony would support the newly-formed Continental Army in its fight for independence from Great Britain. This proclamation helped to solidify Rhode Island's position as one of the leading supporters of the American Revolution.

2. On April 21, 1861, Rhode Island Governor William Sprague IV announced that he would send troops to fight in the Civil War on behalf of the Union. Rhode Island was one of the first states to respond to President Abraham Lincoln's call for troops, and Sprague's announcement helped to mobilize support for the war effort throughout the state.

3. On April 21, 1926, Providence College was founded by the Dominican Friars. Over the years, the college has become one of the leading Catholic institutions of higher education in the United States, attracting students from all over the world.

4. On April 21, 1975, the Rhode Island Supreme Court ruled that a woman had the right to obtain an abortion under certain circumstances. This decision helped to establish Rhode Island as a leader in women's reproductive rights, and paved the way for similar decisions in other states throughout the country.

5. On April 21, 2013, the Boston Marathon bombing occurred, causing widespread shock and grief throughout the New England region, including Rhode Island. The tragedy prompted a massive outpouring of support and solidarity from the people of Rhode Island, many of whom participated in vigils and fundraising events to support the victims of the attack.