1. Rhode Island Ratifies the United States Constitution- On August 31, 1790 Rhode Island became the last of the 13 original colonies to ratify the United States Constitution.

2. End of Slavery- On August 31, 1842, Rhode Island became the first state in the country to pass laws to gradually abolish slavery.

3. Formation of Brown University- On August 31, 1764, Brown University, then known as the College in the English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, was chartered.

4. Launch of USS Rhode Island- On August 31, 1861, the USS Rhode Island was launched, becoming one of the first ironclad ships in the United States Navy.

5. Hurricane Carol- On August 31, 1954 Hurricane Carol hit Rhode Island causing widespread destruction and killing 65 people.