1. Lincoln's Funeral Train: On August 14, 1865, Abraham Lincoln's funeral train passed through six Illinois towns, including Chicago, where his body was laid in state for several hours. Thousands of mourners paid their respects to the fallen president during this historic event.

2. The Chicago Air and Water Show: The annual Chicago Air and Water Show, one of the largest free outdoor events in the country, typically takes place around August 14. The first show was held in 1959 and has since become a beloved Chicago tradition.

3. The Great Illinois Corn Riot: On August 14, 1894, a group of unemployed workers in Granite City, Illinois, rioted over the rising cost of cornmeal. Dubbed "The Great Illinois Corn Riot," the unrest quickly spread to other towns and cities in the state, leading to violent clashes with police and National Guard troops.

4. The first fast food chain opens in Illinois: On August 14, 1921, Billy Ingram and Walter Anderson opened the first White Castle hamburger chain in Wichita, Kansas. The chain quickly expanded to other cities, including Chicago, becoming the first fast food chain in the United States.

5. Illinois becomes the first state to ratify the 19th Amendment: On August 14, 1919, Illinois became the first state to ratify the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which granted women the right to vote. The amendment was officially adopted in 1920, following ratification by two-thirds of the states.