Explore Rhode Island’s Rich History | HISTORY Sponsored Playlist Explore Rhode Island’s Rich History 8 videos SPONSORED BY Roger Williams and the Founding of Providence Plantations In 1636, Roger Williams founded Providence Plantations on radical principles—religious freedom, separation of church and state and equality. 0:34m watch U.S. StatesProvidence Revolutionary War Trail Meredith Ewenson walks the Revolutionary War Trail in Providence, Rhode Island, with sites including the Stephen Hopkins House, John Brown House Museum and more. U.S. StatesNewport Revolutionary War Trail Meredith Ewenson walks the Revolutionary War Trail in Newport, Rhode Island, with sites including the White Horse Tavern, Hunter House and more. Industrial RevolutionWhere the US Industrial Revolution Began In 1793, Samuel Slater built America's first water-powered textile mill–right in Pawtucket. That moment helped spark the Industrial Revolution in the U.S. and transform how the nation worked. American RevolutionThe Courage of the 1st Rhode Island Regiment The 1st Rhode Island Regiment broke barriers in the Revolutionary War as the first predominantly Black unit in the Continental Army. 0:34m watch U.S. StatesInside Newport's Gilded Age Mansions Explore The Breakers, The Elms, and Marble House to discover how Rhode Island became a playground for the elite. 0:34m watch U.S. StatesRhode Island's Role in Sparking the Revolution From the Gaspee Affair to declaring freedom before the rest, Rhode Island's revolutionary roots run deep. 0:34m watch U.S. StatesThe Haunted History of Block Island Pirates, shipwrecks and haunted legends once ruled Block Island. Today, its peaceful trails and historic lighthouses tell a different story. 0:34m watch Now Playing U.S. StatesRoger Williams and the Founding of Providence Plantations In 1636, Roger Williams founded Providence Plantations on radical principles—religious freedom, separation of church and state and equality. 0:34m watch HISTORY EducationHISTORY Vault™HISTORY AppsHISTORY en Español®Military HISTORY®Newsletter Sign UpShare Your OpinionsFAQ / Contact Us Advertise with UsA+E Factual Studios™A+E Studios®Employment OpportunitiesAccessibility SupportTV Parental Guidelines Advertise with UsA+E Factual Studios™A+E Studios®Employment OpportunitiesAccessibility SupportTV Parental Guidelines © 2026, A&E Television Networks, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Terms of UsePrivacy PolicyCopyright PolicyCookie NoticeAd Choices