Nicknamed the “Ocean State” for its scenic coastline, Rhode Island, the smallest U.S. state, packs a punch in history. Newport became the rum capital of the world in 1769, with 22 distilleries during the Triangular Trade. In the Prohibition era, rum running thrived again. The infamous 1929 Black Duck rum runner shootout with the U.S. Coast Guard cemented Rhode Island’s rebellious spirit. The Ocean State continues its rum legacy with a 2006 craft distillery revival. Explore Rhode Island’s distilleries and taste a local rum on your next vacation there.