1. In 1769, Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolá and his expedition party discovered the San Francisco Bay. They named it "Puerto de San Francisco," or Port of San Francisco, and it would eventually become one of the most famous bays in the world.

2. In 1846, American settlers in California declared the independence of the "Bear Flag Republic." This short-lived state was established during the Mexican-American War and lasted only 25 days before being annexed by the United States.

3. In 1862, the Union army defeated Confederate forces in the Battle of Shiloh. Among the California soldiers who fought in the battle was future governor George C. Pardee.

4. In 1926, a massive earthquake struck near the coast of Southern California. The quake, which had a magnitude of 7.3, caused extensive damage in the cities of Long Beach and Los Angeles and resulted in the deaths of over 120 people.

5. In 1956, actor and comedian Red Skelton became the first person to receive the "Key to the City" of Los Angeles. The honor was given to him by Mayor Norris Poulson during a ceremony in front of City Hall.