- **Date of Independence:** July 4, 1776 (as one of the original 13 colonies declaring independence from Britain) - **Date of Annexation to [[United States of America (USA)]]:** January 9, 1788 (5th state to ratify the Constitution) - **Population (2025):** 3.61 million - **GDP (2025):** $290 billion - **Largest City:** Bridgeport (148,000) - **State Capital:** Hartford (122,000) - **Historical Note:** Known as the "Constitution State." One of the original 13 colonies. Birthplace of President [[George W. Bush]]. Famous for Connecticut Compromise during Constitutional Convention. Major insurance industry center. Home to Yale University, submarines (Electric Boat), and helicopter manufacturing (Sikorsky). Known for fall foliage and coastal towns.