1. In 1941, the United States entered World War II after Japan attacked the American naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. This event had a significant impact on the nation and led to a massive mobilization effort on the home front.

2. On December 8, 1980, musician John Lennon was assassinated outside his apartment building in New York City. Despite not occurring in Washington state, this event deeply impacted many people in the state and around the world as Lennon was a beloved cultural icon and peace activist.

3. In 1787, the state of Delaware became the first state to ratify the United States Constitution. This was a significant moment in American history and laid the groundwork for the creation of the federal government that still exists today.

4. December 8, 1926, marked the first all-electric train from Seattle to Tacoma, Washington. This event signaled a major shift in transportation in the state and helped to connect the two cities more efficiently.

5. In 1993, President Bill Clinton signed into law the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), with Washington state playing a major role in the negotiations. This agreement has had a significant impact on trade relations between the United States, Canada, and Mexico.