1. Rhode Island Became a State: On April 30, 1790, Rhode Island became the 13th state to join the Union. It had been the last of the original 13 colonies to do so, but after months of debate, Rhode Island ratified the U.S. Constitution and officially became a state.

2. Roger Williams' Birthday: April 30 is also the birthday of Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island. Williams was born in London in 1603 and arrived in America in 1631. He was banished from Massachusetts for his religious beliefs and founded Rhode Island as a haven for those seeking religious freedom.

3. Revolutionary War Battles: There were several important Revolutionary War battles fought on April 30 in Rhode Island. In 1777, British forces attacked Fort Wolcott on Conanicut Island, but the Americans successfully defended the fort. In 1780, the British captured the town of Warren, but American forces quickly recaptured it.

4. Caleb Chafee Elected Governor: On April 30, 1918, Caleb Chafee was elected governor of Rhode Island. He served as governor for four years and was known for his progressive policies and efforts to improve education and infrastructure in the state.

5. Brown University Founded: Brown University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country, was founded in Rhode Island on April 30, 1764. Originally called the College in the English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, the school was renamed Brown University in 1804 in honor of its benefactor, Nicholas Brown Jr.