Book excerpt: Rhode Island is the smallest state in the union, yet it is also one of the most densely populated. Its political culture has until recently resembled the old-style patronage politics of a city-state. The Ocean State's politics have been highly individualistic, contentious, and distinct from those of surrounding states since its founding by Roger Williams. The state's individualism is embodied in the statue?"The Independent Man"?that stands atop its statehouse.øRhode Island Politics and Government is an essential introduction to the history, structure, and characteristics of politics in Rhode Island. Explained in turn are such components and factors as the state's constitution, general assembly, executive branch, party system, interest groups, budgetary process, and relationship to the federal government. The authors also explore the nature of local government.