1. In 1833, Chicago was incorporated as a town. It grew rapidly in the following years due to its position as a transportation hub, and it eventually became one of the largest cities in the United States.

2. In 1861, the Civil War began. Illinois played a significant role in the conflict, with many soldiers from the state fighting for the Union. Several major battles also took place in Illinois, including the Battle of Shiloh and the Battle of Vicksburg.

3. In 1898, the Spanish-American War began. Illinois sent troops to fight in the war and played a crucial role in the U.S. victory, particularly in the Battle of Manila Bay.

4. In 1945, delegates from 50 countries gathered in San Francisco to sign the United Nations Charter. The charter was designed to promote international cooperation and prevent future conflicts. Illinois played a role in the creation of the UN, with several Illinois politicians attending the conference.

5. In 2019, the first ever cannabis industry trade show took place in Illinois. The state had recently legalized the recreational use and sale of marijuana, and the trade show was attended by thousands of people interested in the new industry. The move made Illinois the 11th state to legalize recreational marijuana.