1. Rhode Island Becomes a State: On January 1, 1790, Rhode Island officially became the 13th state to join the Union.

2. Emancipation Proclamation Celebration: On January 1, 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln, declaring all slaves held in Confederate states to be free. This day is still celebrated in Rhode Island as "Emancipation Day."

3. First U.S. Female Governor: On January 1, 1985, Rhode Island Governor Edward DiPrete resigned due to charges of corruption, making Lieutenant Governor J. Joseph Garrahy the new governor. However, Garrahy suffered from health issues and resigned just three days later, making the state's first female governor, Republican Margaret "Maggie" Smith, the new leader.

4. Independence from Great Britain: On January 1, 1776, Rhode Island proclaimed its independence from Great Britain with the adoption of the Colony's first state constitution.

5. The Start of the Newport Jazz Festival: The Newport Jazz Festival, which has become one of the most renowned jazz festivals in the world, had its first performance on January 1, 1954. The festival has hosted some of the biggest names in jazz, such as Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Thelonious Monk.