Massachusetts has played a significant role in American history since the Pilgrims, seeking religious freedom, founded Plymouth Colony in 1620. As one of the original 13 colonies, the state was an important leader in resisting British oppression, most notably when patriots held the “Boston Tea Party” to protest unjust taxation. The Massachusetts Minute Men started the American Revolution by battling British troops at Lexington and Concord in 1775, and ended it with the formation of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. John Hancock served as the state’s first governor. In 1788, Massachusetts became the sixth state of the union.
During the 19th century and the coming of the railroad in 1835, the state enjoyed an industrial boom. It pioneered the manufacture of textiles and shoes, and was renowned for the vigorous intellectual activity of its writers and educators, and for its expanding commercial fishing, shipping and manufacturing interests. Today, these industries have been replaced in importance by a surge in the electronics and communications equipment fields. The Prudential Center, the Government Center and the John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company skyscrapers dominate the Boston skyline and are a testament to the growth industries of the new millennium. Also important are dairy and poultry products, nursery and greenhouse produce, vegetables and fruit. The state’s cranberry crop is the nation’s largest.
Tourism has become an important stimulus for the state’s economy because of its numerous recreational areas and historical landmarks. Boston successfully combines big-city amenities with a friendly, small-town atmosphere. The Freedom Trail, Cheers’ Bull & Finch Pub, and the Kennedy Library and Museum are don’t miss attractions. Nearby Cambridge is home to Harvard University, the nation’s oldest, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Greater Springfield boasts two spectacular family favorites … Six Flags New England and the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Many Massachusetts cities offer a look back in time. New Bedford’s historic district still sports gas-lit cobblestone streets. The New Bedford Whaling Museum chronicles the town’s roots when it was the hard-driving whaling capital of the world. Plymouth is “America’s Hometown,” a natural starting point to learn about the pilgrim’s early days. Martha’s Vineyard is a charming island with soft sandy beaches, pine forests, rolling hills and moors. Nantucket is also an island haven for unspoiled beaches, peaceful byways and lanes, historic mansions and stunning architecture. Of course, serious outdoor activities can be found near Deerfield along the MoHawk Trail. White-water rafting, kayaking and hiking to the summit of Mt. Greylock, the state’s tallest mountain, are popular with seasoned outdoorsmen.
From Boston’s gleaming landmarks near the ocean to the mystery of Salem’s witch trials, Massachusetts is the perfect meeting place of old and new.