Was Rhode Island independent prior to the declaration of independence? Join Jean Gagnier for a talk that reexamines the founding documents, nature, and actions of America’s smallest and most rebellious colony. This talk offers a perspective on the formation and independence of Rhode Island as it transitioned from colony to state. This event will share primary sources used in research such as the Colonial General Assembly records, diaries, naval records (both Royal Navy and US) Parliamentary Patent, and the Royal Charter of Rhode Island. 

Jean Gagnier, a URI graduate with a degree in history, is a former two-time Westerly Town Council member, Westerly Planning Board member and one of the founding members of Bricks and Murals. He is an instructor with URI’s OLLI (Osher Life-Long Learning Institue).