1. In 1637, the Pequot War began with an attack on a Pequot village on May 7. The war would go on to last until 1638 and significantly impact the indigenous populations in the region.

2. On May 7, 1777, the Battle of Danbury took place in Connecticut but had significant impacts on Rhode Island. British troops had been sent to destroy Patriot supplies in Danbury, but the Patriots fought back, causing the British to retreat through Rhode Island.

3. May 7, 1879, marked the beginning of the first Newport Jazz Festival. The festival would go on to become a major cultural event, attracting world-renowned musicians and expanding to other cities around the world.

4. On May 7, 1915, the RMS Lusitania sunk off the coast of Ireland, a tragedy that would have significant impacts on the United States' entry into World War I. Rhode Island had several residents among the passengers who perished in the sinking.

5. May 7, 1992, saw the opening of the Providence Place Mall, a major shopping and entertainment destination in the heart of downtown Providence. The mall brought significant economic development to the area and continues to be a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.