1. King Philip's War Begins: On May 21, 1676, King Philip's War broke out between the English colonists and the Native American Wampanoag tribe. The conflict lasted for over a year and was marked by numerous brutal attacks on both sides.

2. The Industrial Revolution Comes to Rhode Island: On May 21, 1789, the Industrial Revolution finally arrived in Rhode Island with the opening of the first successful water-powered cotton spinning mill in America. The mill was built by Samuel Slater in the town of Pawtucket.

3. Governor Sprague Commemorates Fallen Soldiers: In 1863, Rhode Island Governor William Sprague proclaimed May 21 to be "Decoration Day," a day to honor and decorate the graves of soldiers who had died in the Civil War.

4. Rhode Island Becomes First State to Ratify Prohibition: On May 21, 1919, Rhode Island became the first state to officially ratify the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, which prohibited the sale, production, and transportation of alcohol across the United States.

5. The First Oyster Festival in Rhode Island is Held: In 2000, the first-ever Oyster Festival in Rhode Island was held on May 21 in the city of Providence. The event has since become an annual tradition, drawing thousands of visitors each year to sample fresh oysters and other seafood delicacies.