1. The State Historical Society of Iowa was founded on December 4, 1857. It was established to collect and preserve the history of Iowa and its inhabitants.

2. On December 4, 1969, the University of Iowa's Hawkeye Marching Band was invited to perform at the National Football League's Baltimore Colts vs. Miami Dolphins game in Baltimore, Maryland. This was the first time a college marching band performed at an NFL game.

3. On December 4, 1980, Iowa Governor Robert D. Ray was elected as Chairman of the National Governors Association. Ray served as NGA Chairman from 1981 to 1982.

4. The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, one of the state's largest agricultural organizations, was founded on December 4, 1918. The Farm Bureau advocates for Iowa's farmers and promotes agriculture in the state.

5. On December 4, 1926, the Iowa Hawkeyes football team defeated the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, 10-7, in Iowa City. This was the first time the Hawkeyes had beaten Notre Dame and marked a turning point in Iowa's football program.