Boston is located in the northeastern part of the United States. The capital of Massachusetts lies on the Charles River and is one of the most important scientific, industrial, business and cultural centers in the country. Since its inception in 1630, the city has developed rapidly thanks to the a port that makes sea trade possible. In December 1773 the inhabitants of Boston organized a protest against the fiscal policy of the British government, which is known in history as the so-called Boston Tea Party. The city of Cambridge is located on the other side of the Charles River.