Rhode Island Voters Approve Changing State's Name

Rhode Island became a state in 1790, officially named 'Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.' Despite common usage of just 'Rhode Island,' the official name remained unchanged until a recent referendum. The referendum, narrowly approved, aimed to remove 'and Providence Plantations' to distance the state from its slavery history.

In what year did Rhode Island become a state?

What is the official name of Rhode Island?

What significant change did Rhode Islanders approve regarding the state's name?

Why do supporters believe the name change is important?

What historical issue is associated with the state's original name?