Know Everything About Connecticut?
Think you know everything there is to know about Connecticut? This state has a long history behind it, and there are plenty of interesting facts that even long-time residents may not be aware of. Sit down and check out some of these interest facts associated with Connecticut’s history.
Historical Facts About Connecticut
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Think you know everything about Connecticut’s history? Read these historical questions and see if you know the answers.
Q: Connecticut is home to the oldest newspaper that is still being published in the United States. What is the name of this newspaper?
A: The Hartford Courant, which was established in 1764, publishes new editions to this day. Thomas Green started the paper on October 29, 1764.
Q: The first nuclear powered submarine was built in Connecticut’s very own city of Groton in 1954. What was the name of the sub?
A: The USS Nautilus. It is currently docked at the Submarine Force Museum, and visitors can view the inside of the vessel.
Q: The first of a specific type of law was put in place in Connecticut way back in 1901. What was this law?
A: Connecticut was the first state to pass laws regarding speed limits for motorized vehicles. Back then, drivers were not allowed to go faster than 12 miles per hour.
Connecticut Name & Nicknames
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Connecticut has earned itself a number of nicknames over the years. Let us see if you know everything there is to know about them.
Q: Do you know where Connecticut gets its name from?
A: The name comes from the Connecticut River which was discovered near the region in 1614. The name itself is derived from the term “quinetucket,” which means “beside the long, tidal river.”
Q: One of Connecticut’s nicknames is derived from a specific type of spice. What is it?
A: Nutmeg. Connecticut is occasionally referred to as “The Nutmeg State,” due to a surplus of nutmeg that was brought here by foreign sailors years ago.
Q: Connecticut is referred to as the “Constitution State” because of an older constitution that was introduced here in 1639. What was its name?
A: This was known as “The Fundamental Orders of Connecticut,” and was considered the first constitution in U.S. history. It would serve as a model for the U.S. Constitution we have today.
Famous Individuals
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Connecticut has been home to several important figures throughout history. Do you know about them?
Q: The man who was responsible for writing the first dictionary took up residence in West Hartford. What was his name?
A: Noah Webster. The first edition of the dictionary, known as the American Dictionary of the English Language, was published in 1806.
Q: The first woman to receive a patent in the U.S. lived in South Killingly. Who was she, and what did she patent?
A: Mary Dixon Kies. She received the patent on May 5th, 1809 for a technique she created to weave together straw using silk and thread.
Odd, Yet Interesting Facts
To wrap up, here are some of the stranger facts associated with Connecticut. Some of these are unbelievable, but they are all true.
Q: Where in Connecticut is it illegal to walk on your hands while crossing the street?
A: It is illegal to walk on your hands while crossing the street in Hartford. Yes, this is a real law.
Q: For a pickle to be considered a pickle in Connecticut, what must it do?
A: It must bounce when it hits the ground. If it does not bounce, I guess we cannot consider it a pickle.