Massachusetts held the first battle of the Revolutionary War in Lexington and many more. It was a New England Colony, some early leaders being William Bradford and John Winthrop. It was made to escape religious persecution in England. Its colony was founded in 1620. Paul Revere's birthplace. Paul Revere's midnight ride. The Pilgrims landed in Massachusetts near Plymouth. Volleyball and basketball were invented in this state. Also has Harvard University, the oldest college in North America. Nicknamed the Bay State. Birthplace of Johnny Appleseed