1. The founding of Providence: On November 5, 1636, Roger Williams founded the city of Providence. He named the settlement in gratitude for the providential escape that he and his followers experienced during their journey from Massachusetts Bay Colony.

2. The First Baptist Church of America: The First Baptist Church of America, the oldest Baptist church in the United States, was founded on November 5, 1638, in Providence by Roger Williams. It still stands today in downtown Providence.

3. The Gaspee Affair: On November 5, 1772, a group of Rhode Island colonists burned the British customs schooner Gaspee in the waters off of what is now Pawtuxet Village. This act of rebellion against British authority is often cited as a precursor to the American Revolution.

4. The formation of the Rhode Island Anti-Slavery Society: On November 5, 1832, the Rhode Island Anti-Slavery Society was founded in Providence. The group was dedicated to the abolition of slavery and played a key role in the movement that led to the Civil War.

5. The Great New England Hurricane: On November 5, 1938, the Great New England Hurricane struck Rhode Island, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The storm, one of the most powerful and destructive in American history, had winds of up to 186 miles per hour and a storm surge that was 17 feet high in some areas.