In the early 17th century, English settlers began to arrive in Connecticut. These settlers were primarily Puritans who sought to establish a religious colony where they could freely practice their faith. The Puritans established a number of towns in Connecticut, including Hartford, Wethersfield, and Windsor. They also founded the Connecticut Colony, which was one of the original thirteen colonies of the United States.
The population of Connecticut continued to grow throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. In the early 19th century, many Irish and German immigrants came to Connecticut to work in the state's factories. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many Italian, Polish, and Jewish immigrants also came to Connecticut.
Today, Connecticut is a diverse state with a population of over 3.5 million people. The state is home to people of many different backgrounds and cultures. Connecticut is also a major center for education, healthcare, and finance.