1. Rhode Island was founded on August 11, 1636 by Roger Williams, who settled in what is now Providence. Williams was a Puritan dissenter who believed in religious tolerance and separation of church and state, making him a controversial figure in colonial America.

2. On August 11, 1772, the Gaspee Affair occurred off the coast of Rhode Island. The British customs ship Gaspee had been enforcing trade regulations and chasing smugglers when it ran aground. A group of colonists, led by John Brown, burned the ship in retaliation for its aggressive tactics.

3. On August 11, 1790, Rhode Island became the last state to ratify the United States Constitution. The state had been hesitant to join the new federal government, and only did so after several states had already signed on.

4. The Rhode Island State House was dedicated on August 11, 1904. The building, which is located in Providence, is home to the state legislature and the offices of the governor and other state officials. It is notable for its large dome, which is the fourth largest self-supporting marble dome in the world.

5. On August 11, 1992, Hurricane Andrew made landfall in southern Florida. The storm caused widespread damage and devastation, and Rhode Island was one of several states that sent aid and supplies to help with the recovery efforts.