1. On December 21, 1827, a devastating fire broke out in Lexington, Kentucky, destroying most of the city's businesses and homes. The fire was so intense that it could be seen from miles away and left thousands of residents homeless.

2. On December 21, 1861, the Battle of Rowlett's Station took place in southern Kentucky during the American Civil War. The Confederate victory helped secure the region for the Confederacy and marked an early setback for Union forces in the state.

3. Kentucky achieved statehood on December 21, 1792, making it the 15th state to enter the United States. The state was originally part of Virginia before becoming a separate territory in 1790.

4. On December 21, 1937, the Ohio River flooded, causing widespread damage and displacement in a number of Kentucky communities. The flood was one of the worst natural disasters in the state's history and led to significant reforms in terms of flood prevention and disaster response.

5. December 21, 1981 saw the passing of legendary Kentucky sports figure Adolph Rupp, who coached the University of Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team for over 40 years. Rupp won four NCAA championships with the Wildcats and remains one of the most successful coaches in college basketball history.