1. On December 26, 1862, the largest mass execution in US history took place in Mankato, Minnesota. Thirty-eight Dakota men were hanged by the US government in retaliation for the Dakota War of 1862.
2. December 26, 1922, saw the birth of Richard Widmark, a Hollywood actor and Minnesota native known for his roles in films such as "Kiss of Death" and "Judgment at Nuremberg."
3. Minnesota experienced a severe winter storm on December 26, 1982, with strong winds and heavy snow leading to power outages and transportation disruptions across the state.
4. On December 26, 2017, a major fire broke out in downtown Minneapolis, causing significant damage to several buildings, including the historic Drake Hotel.
5. In 2018, the Minnesota Twins signed Nelson Cruz to a one-year contract on December 26. Cruz went on to have an impressive season with the team, leading them to a Wild Card spot in the playoffs.