1. In 1776, Rhode Island became the first colony to renounce allegiance to King George III and declare independence from Great Britain, two days before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
2. On July 3, 1843, the world's first velocipede was ridden in Providence, Rhode Island. This precursor to the bicycle was created by French blacksmith Ernest Michaux and introduced to America by his son Charles.
3. In 1898, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Rhode Island State House took place on July 3. The building, which took over 20 years to complete, is the home of the state's government and is known for its grand dome.
4. The America's Cup sailing race, which was won by the legendary yacht America in 1851, has a strong Rhode Island connection. The races were first held in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1930, and the state hosted the competition numerous times throughout the 20th century.
5. July 3, 1946, was a day of celebration for Rhode Island's Jewish community as the first synagogue was dedicated in Providence. Temple Beth-El continues to serve the community to this day and is one of the largest Reform Jewish congregations in the region.
5 Fun Facts About July 3 In Rhode Island History
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