1. On July 18, 1776, Rhode Island declared its independence from Great Britain. This made it one of the original 13 colonies to do so.

2. The Newport Jazz Festival, which is held annually on the third weekend of July, had its beginning on July 18, 1954. The festival was the first of its kind and featured performances by jazz greats such as Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie.

3. On July 18, 1969, the Quonset Point Naval Air Station, located in North Kingstown, was officially closed. The air station was a key location during World War II and the Cold War.

4. On July 18, 2004, the America's Cup, one of the most prestigious sailing events in the world, was won by Alinghi, a Swiss sailing team. The final race took place off the coast of Newport, Rhode Island.

5. The Rhode Island State House, located in Providence, was dedicated on July 18, 1904. The building stands as a symbol of the state's rich history and is home to many important government offices and chambers.