1. On April 16, 1912, the Alaska Road Commission was established by the U.S. Congress to improve the transportation infrastructure in the territory. This paved the way for the construction of the Alaska Highway in the 1940s, which connected Alaska to the contiguous United States.

2. In 1964, a massive 9.2 magnitude earthquake struck Alaska on April 16, resulting in widespread devastation and loss of life. The earthquake, known as the Great Alaskan Earthquake, remains the most powerful earthquake in North American recorded history.

3. On April 16, 1988, a Boeing 747 cargo jet crashed near Anchorage, Alaska, killing all five crew members on board. The crash was caused by the airplane's cargo shifting during takeoff.

4. In 2005, April 16 became the date of Alaska's first Dividend Day, which marked the distribution of payments from the state's Permanent Fund to eligible residents. The program, which began in 1982, provides annual payments to Alaska residents from the earnings of the state's oil wealth.

5. On April 16, 2012, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center opened a new exhibit showcasing the history of Alaska's oil industry. The exhibit featured artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations, offering visitors a glimpse into one of Alaska's most important industries.