1. California adopts the Grizzly Bear as its state animal - April 9, 1953
On this day in 1953, California adopted the grizzly bear as its official state animal. The native bear species, also known as the California grizzly, was once abundant in the state but is now extinct. The grizzly bear remains a symbol of California's heritage and natural beauty.

2. Disneyland opens in Anaheim, California - April 9, 1961
Disneyland, the famous theme park created by Walt Disney, opened on April 9, 1961, in Anaheim, California. The park has since become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

3. Loma Prieta earthquake strikes the San Francisco Bay Area - April 9, 1906
On April 9, 1906, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake hit the San Francisco Bay Area, causing widespread damage and destruction. The earthquake and resulting fires are estimated to have killed more than 3,000 people and left much of the city in ruins.

4. First recorded baseball game in California - April 9, 1850
The first recorded baseball game in California was played on April 9, 1850, in San Francisco. The game was played between the San Francisco Eagles and the Red Rovers, with the Eagles winning 11-8.

5. California Governor Jerry Brown declares drought state of emergency - April 9, 2015
California Governor Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency due to drought on April 9, 2015. The state was experiencing one of its worst droughts in history, with many areas facing severe water shortages. The drought had a significant impact on agriculture, wildlife, and the state's economy.