MASSACHUSETTS

a north-eastern US state in New England , also known informally as the Bay State or the Old Colony. The capital and largest city is Boston . The state was settled in 1620 by the Pilgrim Fathers . It played an important part in the American Revolution and was one of the original 13 states. Its main industries include the production of electronic and communication equipment, as well as education and research. It also produces a lot of vegetables and fruit, especially cranberries. Among its historical places visited by tourists are Independence Hall , Cape Cod and Plymouth Rock .