What historical event happened in rhode island?

Answer

In 1859 John Brown attacked the Harpers Ferry that created a move towards the American civil war.

Explanation

The raid of the Harpers Ferry facilitated the events which directly influenced the outbreak of the American Civil war. The idea was to initiate an armed slave revolution and to bring an end to slavery. Marines under Robert E. Lee leadership defeated Brown and his followers.

to act quickly in times of danger to the united states

because you have to act quickly if you want to live/survive.