1. In 1861, Virginia seceded from the United States on April 17, but it wasn't until April 20 that Confederate forces took control of the important naval base at Norfolk.

2. In 1777, Virginia's General Assembly passed a resolution calling for the establishment of public schools. This event was a milestone in Virginia's educational history.

3. On April 20, 1796, the Virginia Gazette reported that the Virginia Assembly had passed a bill allowing slaves to be freed through manumission, which means they were granted their freedom by their owners.

4. In 1984, April 20 was designated as Virginia Day in honor of the state's history and culture. This celebration highlights the state's diverse heritage and contributions to the nation.

5. On April 20, 1863, Union troops under General John A. Dix occupied Norfolk, thus securing Virginia's Tidewater region for the Union. This event marked a turning point in the Civil War in Virginia.