1. On December 18, 1959, the Minot Air Force Base in Ward County, North Dakota, became fully operational. The base is home to the 5th Bomb Wing and the 91st Missile Wing, and plays a critical role in America's nuclear deterrent.

2. December 18, 1922, marked the birth of legendary North Dakota politician Quentin Burdick. He served in the US House of Representatives for six years before becoming a Senator in 1960, and was known for his work on agricultural and environmental issues.

3. The winter of 1924-25 was one of the most severe in North Dakota history, and December 18, 1924 was no exception. On that day, temperatures across the state plummeted to as low as minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit, causing widespread hardship and suffering.

4. December 18, 1878, saw the birth of journalist and political activist Arthur C. Townley. He was a key figure in the nonpartisan League of North Dakota, which sought to level the political playing field and fight for farmers' rights.

5. On December 18, 2009, North Dakota's largest public works project in history was officially opened. The Fargo Flood Diversion project was designed to protect the city of Fargo and the surrounding area from floodwaters by diverting the Red River around the city.