1. In 1779, American forces led by General John Sullivan landed in Rhode Island to begin a campaign against the British. The campaign, known as the Battle of Rhode Island, would last for several weeks and ultimately end in a stalemate between the two sides.

2. On June 22, 1839, the first women's rights convention in Rhode Island was held in Providence. The convention was attended by both women and men who advocated for women's suffrage and equal rights.

3. In 1874, the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) was established in Providence. Today, RISD is recognized as one of the top art and design schools in the country.

4. On June 22, 1945, the USS Bennington exploded off the coast of Rhode Island, killing over 100 sailors. The cause of the explosion was never fully determined, but it is believed to have been linked to a faulty boiler.

5. In 1961, Rhode Island became the last state in the country to adopt an official state flag. The flag features an anchor with the word "Hope" above it, symbolizing the state's maritime heritage and optimism for the future.