Connecticut
History: Before the Dutch explored Connecticut, the region was inhabited by multiple Native American tribes. Connecticut was later settled permanently by English Puritans from Massachussetts, beginning in 1633. From its onset, Connecticut had a great deal of political independence based on a democratic principle of government based on the will of the people. Connecticut is one of the original 13 states, becoming the 5th state on January 9, 1788.
Economy: Finance, insurance and real estate make up Connecticut’s largest industry, as of 2018. It is home to many financial industry employers, such as CVS Health, Bank of America, GE Capital, and countless others. It is also considered a ‘suburban’ state, as many of its residents work in New York.
Climate: Connecticut’s climate has cool winters with a mix of rain and occasional snow; with long, hot, humid summers on its East Coast. The rain is fairly even throughout the 12 months. It gets 56% on average of sunshine above the U.S. national average.
Geography: Connecticut is bordered by Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York. About 15% of the area is covered by water, (Rivers & lakes). It is the third smallest of the 50 states. Most of Connecticut is less than 500 feet above sea level.
Fun Facts:
- Connecticut is one of the original 13 colonies as well as being one of the six New England States.
- The Fundamental Orders which originated in Connecticut are said to have been the first written Constitution of a democratic government; that’s why Connecticut today is nicknamed “The Constitution State.”
- The author of the first dictionary, Noah Webster, lived in West Hartford, CT.
- It’s illegal to walk on your hands in Hartford, CT.
- Connecticut is the home of the first hamburger, Polaroid camera, color television, and the helicopter.
- The smallest natural waterfall in the US, called Mil Pond Falls is located in Newington.
Points of Interest:
- Goodspeed Opera House
- The Mark Twain House
- East Haddam Swing Bridge
- Florence Griswold Museum
- Mystic Seaport, Aquarium
- Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History
Six additional sites for more information:
www.infoplease.com/us/states/connecticut
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Connecticut
www.netstate.com/states/intro/ct_intro.htm
www.coolkidfacts.com/connecticut
kids.nationalgeographic.com/connecticut/