1. On January 12, 1793, President George Washington signed the Fugitive Slave Act, which allowed for the capture and return of runaway slaves. The law was controversial and contributed to the growing tensions between Northern and Southern states over the issue of slavery.

2. In 1920, on January 12, the Washington State Park System was established by the state legislature. The system has since grown to include over 100 parks, featuring diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities for visitors.

3. January 12, 1969, was a significant day in Washington history, as the Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet made its first flight from Paine Field in Everett. The aircraft revolutionized air travel with its size and capacity, and Boeing remains a major employer and economic force in the state.

4. On January 12, 1981, Seattle native Bill Gates announced the first version of Microsoft's operating system, MS-DOS, which would become the foundation of the company's success in the personal computer industry.

5. In 2008, on January 12, the Seattle Seahawks won their first-ever playoffs game at home, defeating the Washington Redskins 35-14. The victory helped advance the team to the NFC Championship game, their first appearance at that stage of the playoffs since the franchise was founded in 1976.