Connecticut

D

Mining

Connecticut has only a few known mineral deposits of commercial worth. Copper and lead were mined in colonial times and used in making household utensils. Iron was also mined, and during the American Revolution, Connecticut supplied iron for the manufacture of weapons, ammunition, and other military equipment for the colonial forces. However, nonmetals now account for all of the state’s mineral production. Traprock, which is used in road-building, and sand and gravel are the state’s most valuable minerals.

E

Manufacturing

Connecticut established a thriving industrial complex in the colonial period, largely because its fast-flowing streams and waterfalls could easily be harnessed for power. Nails were produced early in the 1700s, and brass making was introduced in 1749. Weapons manufactured in Connecticut were used to fight the British during the American Revolution. In the 1790s the state was known for its hats (made in Danbury) and timepieces (made primarily in Watertown). Connecticut resident Eli Whitney developed the cotton gin, which rapidly separated the seeds from cotton and made its cultivation, and the production of cotton cloth, economical. The state’s armaments industry was an important supplier of firearms during World War I (1914-1918) and World War II (1939-1945), and the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine was launched from a Connecticut shipyard in 1954.

The leading industry in Connecticut in the late 1990s was the manufacture of industrial machinery, including computers, office machines, ball and roller bearings, turbines, and engines. Other leading manufacturers were the makers of transportation equipment, particularly helicopters, aircraft engines, propellers, ships, and submarines; the producers of chemicals and related products, particularly pharmaceuticals and soaps; and firms engaged in developing instruments for surgery and medicine, process control devices, measuring equipment, and optical instruments and lenses. Another important industry was metal fabrication, including the manufacture of small arms and ordnance, hardware and hand tools, and cutlery.

The principal manufacturing centers are Hartford, Bridgeport, New Haven, Waterbury, Stamford, New London, New Britain, Norwalk, Danbury, and Meriden. Some of them are traditionally noted for a single product, but all produce numerous other goods as well. New Britain is known particularly for hardware and Bristol for specialty electrical equipment and mechanical springs. Groton produces submarines for the United States Navy.

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F

Electricity

Until the middle 19th century, many swift-flowing streams and waterfalls turned the waterwheels of mills and factories built along rivers and streams. The state’s water-power resources were an important factor in its early industrialization and were later exploited by its electric power industry. In 2005, however, 48 percent of the electricity generated in the state came from conventional steam plants fueled by oil or coal. Hydroelectric dams generated only 1 percent of electricity produced in the state. Connecticut’s four nuclear power plants all ceased operations in the mid-1990s.

G

Insurance

The insurance industry dates from the 18th century when marine insurance was underwritten to cover the hazards of shipping. Connecticut insurance companies now underwrite policies for fire insurance, traveler’s insurance, automobile insurance, aircraft insurance, and life, accident, and disability insurance. Many insurance companies with headquarters in the state have their home offices at Hartford.

H

Transportation

H

1

Highways

Connecticut serves as a major gateway for highway routes into the New England region. The state’s extensive highway system includes several heavily traveled roads linking New York City with Boston. Among the major highways in Connecticut is Interstate 95, which extends across the southern part of the state. This route follows the route of the famous Boston Post Road, which linked Boston with New York City in colonial times. In 2004 the state had 34,026 km (21,143 mi) of highways, including 557 km (346 mi) of the federal interstate highway system.