1. In 1867, the first organized cattle drive from Texas to Wyoming began. This marked the beginning of the state's important role in the cattle industry. Many early ranches were established in Wyoming during this time.

2. In 1909, the Wyoming State Penitentiary opened in Rawlins. This maximum-security facility has housed some of the state's most dangerous criminals, including infamous killer Gary Gilmore.

3. In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Wilderness Act into law, which protected over 9 million acres of Wyoming's natural landscape. Today, Wyoming is home to a number of incredible wilderness areas, including the Wind River Range and the Bridger Wilderness.

4. In 1985, a major earthquake struck the town of Jackson, Wyoming. The quake had a magnitude of 6.2 and caused significant damage to buildings in the area. Thankfully, no one was killed in the quake.

5. In 2009, a rare solar eclipse was visible from Wyoming. The eclipse was a total eclipse, meaning that the moon completely blocked out the sun's light for a short period of time. This event drew thousands of visitors to the state and was a memorable experience for many who witnessed it.