Audio Guide: Boston Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Boston

The capital of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States and it had played a key role in the country's struggle for independence. Founded in 1630 by Puritan settlers from England, it witnessed many events of the American Revolution, including the Boston Massacre, the Boston Tea Party, the Battle of Bunker Hill, and the Siege of Boston.

Before European colonization, the territory was inhabited by an indigenous tribe called Massachusett. Early European settlers had first called the area Trimountaine after its three mountains, only traces of which remain today. The city was later renamed after Boston, Lincolnshire, England, where several prominent colonists had originated from.

Boston has been a noted religious center since its earliest days. King's Chapel was the city's first Anglican church, founded in 1686. Other prominent local temples include Christ Church built in 1723 and better known as Old North Church, Park Street Church built in 1810, and many others.

Before the mid-18th century, the city had been the largest in the Thirteen Colonies and was home to many of America's firsts, such as the first public park (Boston Common in 1634), the first public school (Boston Latin School in 1635), the first subway system (Tremont Street subway in 1897), as well as numerous historical attractions, like the Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

Boston's oceanfront location made it a lively port, and the city primarily engaged in shipping and fishing during its colonial days. After the American Revolution, Boston's long seafaring tradition helped to make it one of the nation's busiest ports. It also thrived as a manufacturing hub.

In the 1800s, the local population grew rapidly amid the first wave of European immigrants, dominated by the Irish who fled the Great Famine back home. It established itself as the transportation hub for the New England region with its network of railroads, and even more importantly, the intellectual and educational center of the nation.

More immigrants came in the latter half of the 19th century. Chief among them were Germans, Lebanese, Syrians, French Canadians, and Russian and Polish Jewish settlers. The city's industrial base continued to expand well into the 20th century. In the 21st century, the city's economy is centered on education, medicine, financials, and high technology.

Nowadays, Boston's rich heritage lures history buffs and tourists in great numbers. Visitors from around the world come to see historical places like Paul Revere House and Old North Church, and learn the history of American Independence.

If you wish to follow in the footsteps of Boston's heroes, see memorials to the world-changing events, and generally make the most of your time in Boston, take this self-guided introduction walk to explore some of the city's most prominent sights!