What is this book about?

This book provides a chronological overview of Rhode Island's history, beginning with the arrival of English settlers in the early 17th century, led by figures like Roger Williams who sought freedom from religious persecution. It details the founding of the three original settlements: Providence, Portsmouth, and Newport. The narrative covers the colonial period, highlighting the state's complex relationships with other colonies and the British Crown, its unique political structure, and its reputation as a haven for dissenters and Quakers.

The book then moves into the Revolutionary War, exploring Rhode Island's crucial but often underappreciated role in key battles and its eventual separation from British rule. It follows the state's journey through the formation of the United States, its growth, the challenges of the Industrial Revolution, and its evolution into a modern state. The author aims to present a balanced view, covering both the triumphs and the struggles, the famous figures and the everyday lives of Rhode Islanders throughout the centuries.