Connecticut is a small state but it has been one of the most vigorously independent and productive since Dutch explorer Adriaen Block discovered the Connecticut River in 1614. Geographically, it is the third smallest state, even though its original charter, granted in 1662, extended the land grant west to the Pacific Ocean.

Connecticut's contributions to the world are great - three towns in Connecticut developed the first written constitution, 'The Fundamental Orders', where it was declared that 'the foundation of authority is in the free consent of the people'. The Charter Oak became a symbol of the independence of the people of this state, when King James II revoked the Connecticut Charter in 1687. Preventing Royal Governor Sir Edmund Andros from getting his hands on it, Joseph Wadsworth stole the document and is said to have hidden it in the hollow of an oak tree on Samuel Wylly's property.