1. On February 17, 1777, the Battle of Stillwater took place in Saratoga County, New York during the American Revolutionary War. Many soldiers from New Jersey fought in this battle.

2. On February 17, 1848, The New Jersey Legislature passed a law banning the use of torture in state prisons. This was an important step towards improving the treatment of prisoners in the state.

3. On February 17, 1863, New Jersey Governor Charles S. Olden signed legislation that allowed African American men to vote in the state for the first time. This was a significant step towards extending voting rights to all citizens.

4. On February 17, 1926, New Jersey Governor A. Harry Moore signed legislation to establish Rutgers University as the State University of New Jersey. Rutgers University is now one of the largest and most respected universities in the state.

5. On February 17, 1970, the first ever environmentally-focused television program was broadcast from Rutgers University. The program, called “Rutgers Today: Environment,” discussed environmental issues such as pollution and conservation. This was an important early step in raising awareness about environmental concerns.