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Connecticut’s name originates from a Mohegan word, Quinnehtukqut, meaning "place beside a long tidal river". Prior to European settlement, Connecticut was inhabited by several Indian tribes including the Paugussetts, Siwanogs, Quinnipiacs, Tunxis, Podunk, Poquinock, Nipmuks, Mohegans, and Pequots. Connecticut was then explored by the Dutch, and later settled by the Puritans. Before entering statehood in 1788, Connecticut originated the fist written constitution in history, known as The Fundamental Orders, in 1638-9. Therefore one of Connecticut’s nicknames remains the Constitution State.
Connecticut provided major assets for the Revolutionary War effort. Indeed, the state became known as the "arsenal of the nation" through its role over time of producing firearms with interchangeable parts. This methodology led to the introduction of modern mass production.
In addition to originating a constitution, Connecticut’s history is one of many "firsts" in the United States. The first medical diploma was awarded at Yale University; the first dictionary was published here by Noah Webster; the first cotton gin was invented here by Eli Whitney; the first revolver, portable typewriter, can opener, color television, nuclear submarine, and artificial heart were made here.
Famous "Nutmeggers", as residents of Connecticut are sometimes called, include the aforementioned Noah Webster and Eli Whitney, Benjamin Spock, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Ethan Allen, Benedict Arnold, Samuel Colt, Katherine Hepburn, Annie Leibovitz, Frederick Law Olmstead, and P. T. Barnum.
Connecticut promises to continue its legacy of invention and "Yankee ingenuity" in its future endeavors, particularly in the realm of bioscience and biotechnology.
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