Approximately 10,000 years ago, it is believed that the Paleo-Indians, the ancestors of Native Americans, arrived in Massachusetts. However, many of these Native Americans would not survive the European contact in early 1500?, who brought with them incurable disease.

Approximately 100 years later, the Pilgrims and Puritans, the first Europeans to permanently settle in New England, landed in what would become Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1620. Later that century, the area would be a site for the Salem witch trials, which was one of the darker events in American history. It would also be a breeding ground for many revolutionary heroes and moments, such as Paul Revere? ride and the Boston Tea Party. Massachusetts became this nation? third state on February 6, 1788.

Visitors can see a variety of historic and tourist attractions, including Paul Revere? house, Old Sturbridge Village (which recreates life in the 1830?), Plymouth Plantation, Salem Witch Village and the House of Seven Gables, which was inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne? famous work.

Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy many of the aspects that make New England a popular tourist location. One can explore beaches, ski, view beautiful fall foliage, participate in a whale watch, and visit state forests and parks. The Aquinnah Cliffs provide a breathtaking view of the ocean, while the state? lighthouses and nature centers are numerous.

The state is also home to the arts, sport, museums and zoos. The attractions, too numerous to list, include the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Boston Marathon every April, the Boston Red Sox, the New England Patriots, the Boston Children? Museum, the Museum of Science and the New England Aquarium.

Fun Fact - Massachusetts was the birthplace of four U.S Presidents: John Adams, John Quincy Adams, John F. Kennedy and George H.W. Bush. Calvin Coolidge, though born in Vermont, rose to political fame in Massachusetts.