Rhode Island Independence Day
Monday, May 4, 2026
In 1636, Settlement of. Rhode Island. Roger Williams, banished from Massachusetts for his religious beliefs, establishes Providence Plantations, which becomes Rhode Island
History
Rhode Island Independence Day on May 4 commemorates the day in 1776 when the Rhode Island General Assembly declared independence from Britain, making Rhode Island the first of the Thirteen Colonies to renounce allegiance to King George III. Rhode Island's path to independence began in 1636 when Roger Williams was banished from Massachusetts Bay Colony for his religious beliefs and established Providence Plantations, creating a haven for religious freedom. Anne Hutchinson later founded Portsmouth, and these settlements formed the colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. Rhode Island played a prominent role in the American Revolution, with the Gaspee Affair in 1772 being an early act of rebellion against British rule. On May 4, 1776, Rhode Island declared independence, two months before the Continental Congress declared independence on July 4, 1776. May 4 celebrates Rhode Island's pioneering role in American independence.
How It's Celebrated
Celebrate by learning more about the occasion, sharing on social media with relevant hashtags, participating in community events, or taking small personal actions that align with the day's theme.