Its first settlers called this land "Quinatucquet," which means "Beside the Long Tidal River." In 1614 Dutch traders landed and decided to stay, purchasing land from the Pequot Indians to make a permanent settlement. Soon English settlers from the Massachusetts Bay Colony began exploring here, and, impressed with the beauty of the countryside, they decided to remain, also. Soon towns and settlements began sprouting up all along the Connecticut River.

It was here in Connecticut that the first constitution was written, called the fundamental Orders of Connecticut. This was the basis for the United States Constitution. Concerned about the colony's legal standing with England, Governor John Winthrop went to England in 1662 and obtained a royal charter, giving the colony a legal basis and the approval of the king. However, the next king attempted to revoke the charter. This resulted in the charter being spirited away and hidden in a hollow spot in a large oak tree, since known as the Charter Oak.

The resulting Revolutionary War made heroes of many citizens of Connecticut, one of which was Nathan Hale, whose statue is at the State Capitol Building. However, only one major battle was fought here, at New London, when British forces led by Benedict Arnold captured Fort Griswold and burned much of the town.

Connecticut is home to much of this nation's early history. Eli Whitney manufactured muskets here with standard, interchangeable parts. Noah Webster published the first abbreviated edition of his dictionary of the American language, largely replacing English dictionaries, and giving the American language a legitimate reference source. The Old State House in Hartford is the oldest in the nation. The first American music school was in Salem. Connecticut was among the first states to abolish slavery.

Come to Connecticut and make your own mark on history.