2 Minute History New Hampshire

New Hampshire, one of the original 13 colonies, has a rich history that mirrors America's journey from exploration to independence and industrialization. Initially inhabited by indigenous tribes, it saw European settlement in the early 17th century. As a separate royal colony by 1679, its economy was rooted in fishing, lumber, and trade. New Hampshire was pivotal in the American Revolutionary War, being the first to establish an independent government in 1776. The 19th century brought industrial growth, especially in textiles. Today, New Hampshire balances its historical legacy with modern sectors like technology and healthcare, maintaining its independent spirit embodied by the motto "Live Free or Die."