Bristol gained national fame, despite its small size as a result of having the oldest, continuous Independence Day celebrations in the United States, earning Bristol its nickname, "America's most patriotic town."
Bristol's diverse heritage is influenced by a strong Portuguese-American presence, mostly Azorean, and Italian-American. Major industries include boat building (and related marine industries), manufacturing and tourism[1]. The town's school system is united with neighboring Warren, Rhode Island.
As of the census of 2000, there were 22,469 people, 8,314 households, and 5,653 families residing in the town. The population density was 2,222.2 people per square mile (858.1/km). There were 8,705 housing units at an average density of 860.9/sq mi (332.4/km). The ethnic group makeup of the town was 97.14% European, 1.29% Hispanic or Latino (of any race), 0.67% Asian, 0.62% African, 0.16% Native American, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.33% other ethnic group, and 1.03% from two or more races.