1. In 1817, Fort St. Marks was surrendered to the Spanish by its American garrison during the First Seminole War. This surrender ultimately led to a peace treaty between the United States and Spain in which Spain ceded Florida to the United States in 1819.

2. On April 15, 1900, the town of Gainesville suffered a devastating fire that destroyed more than 50 buildings downtown. This disaster led to improvements in the town's fire department and a new emphasis on fire safety in the region.

3. In 1924, a group of African-American farmers founded the town of Eatonville, just north of Orlando. This town, which is still thriving today, is one of the oldest and most significant African-American communities in the United States.

4. In 1955, the first meeting of the Florida State Fair Authority was held in Tampa. This organization is responsible for the annual Florida State Fair, which has grown into one of the largest and most popular events in the state.

5. On April 15, 1972, the first SunFest was held in West Palm Beach. This festival, which celebrates music, art, and culture in South Florida, has grown into one of the largest and most beloved annual events in the region.