How did Connecticut get its name?

The state of Connecticut got its name from the Connecticut River, which runs through the central part of the state before emptying into Long Island Sound. The word comes from the Indian name "Quinnehtukqut," meaning "beside the long, tidal river."

Though the word "Connecticut" has been around since the early 1600s, it wasn't until Jan. 9, 1788 that the territory followed Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Georgia to became the fifth state admitted to the Union. Nicknamed the "Constitution State," Connecticut ranks 48th largest in size, covering more area than only Delaware and Rhode Island. It is, however, the fourth most densely populated state, with roughly 739 residents per square mile.