| Rhode Island is the smallest state of the United States by size with a total area of 1,545 square miles. It shares the western border with Connecticut and the northern and eastern border with Massachusetts. To the southwest, it has a water border with New York state. Located in the New England region of the US, the state ranks 43rd by the size of population, which was more than a million in 2008. It has the second highest density of population as well with more than a thousand people residing in a square mile of area. Rhode Island was among the thirteen original colonies that laid the foundation of the US and was the last among them to ratify US Constitution in 1790. Its official nickname is "The Ocean State" whereas, unofficially, it is referred to as Little Rhody across other states of the nation. The highest point is Jerimoth Hill, which is as high as 815 feet, while the Atlantic Ocean is its lowest point. Warm summer humid continental climate is prevalent across the state. Summers are hot and rainy while winters are chilly. Providence is the largest city as well as the capital of the state. |
