1. On December 5, 1955, Alaska's largest and longest earthquake occurred with a moment magnitude of 8.6. The earthquake caused a tsunami that reached Hawaii, Japan, and California, killing two people and causing extensive damage.

2. In 1859, the first recorded gold discovery in Alaska was made on December 5 near Sitka. This discovery sparked the Alaska Gold Rush and paved the way for the state's mining industry.

3. On December 5, 1945, a U.S. military transport plane crashed into Mount Sanford in the Chugach Mountains, killing all 11 people on board. The wreckage was not discovered until 1992 when a team of climbers stumbled upon it.

4. In 1972, the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act was signed into law on December 5. This landmark legislation granted land and financial compensation to Alaska Natives for the loss of their traditional lands and resources.

5. On December 5, 2002, Anchorage experienced its first significant snowstorm of the season, with more than a foot of snow falling in some areas. The storm caused widespread power outages and traffic accidents but also provided residents with plenty of opportunities for winter recreation.