1. On August 4, 1914, the state of Washington declared martial law due to the outbreak of World War I. The governor at the time, Ernest Lister, authorized the creation of a state council of defense to oversee wartime activities and encourage citizens to support the war effort.

2. In 1906, on August 4, a massive fire broke out in downtown Seattle, destroying more than 60 acres of the city and causing over $15 million in damages (equivalent to over $400 million today). The fire started in a building that housed various types of combustibles, including turpentine and other chemicals, and quickly spread due to strong winds.

3. On August 4, 1925, the Seattle Police Department created its first female police unit, comprised of six women who were tasked with enforcing morals laws and regulating public behavior. The unit was later disbanded in 1938 due to concerns over discrimination against women.

4. The state of Washington officially became the 42nd state to join the United States on August 4, 1889, after a long process of territorial expansion and negotiation. Its flag, featuring the state seal on a dark green background, was adopted in 1923.

5. August 4, 1972 saw the opening of the Seattle Center Monorail, providing visitors and commuters with a quick and convenient transportation option between downtown Seattle and the Seattle Center (home to the Space Needle). The monorail was originally built for the 1962 World's Fair and remains a popular attraction to this day.