1. On April 24, 1942, the United States War Production Board issued an order prohibiting the use of steel for certain non-military purposes. This affected many businesses in Illinois, including the automobile and construction industries.

2. In 1967, the city of Peoria celebrated the grand opening of the Peoria Civic Center, which was built with the help of federal funds. The facility continues to host concerts, sporting events, and other cultural activities.

3. April 24, 1997, marked the opening of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois. The world-class facility has since become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.

4. On this day in 2005, the Chicago White Sox played a record 25-inning game against the Los Angeles Angels. Although the Sox lost, the game remains one of the longest in baseball history.

5. In 2015, the city of Baltimore was rocked by riots following the death of Freddie Gray while in police custody. Many Illinois residents joined in protests against police brutality and racial injustice.