1. On January 18, 1850, Minnesota officially became a state of the United States, following years of negotiations with the federal government. The signing of the Minnesota Statehood Act by President Zachary Taylor paved the way for Minnesota to enter the Union as the 32nd state.

2. On January 18, 1871, the first regular session of the Minnesota Legislature was convened, marking the beginning of Minnesota's modern political system. The state's lawmakers went on to pass many significant bills over the years, including laws protecting workers' rights and establishing a statewide public education system.

3. On January 18, 1944, pioneering aviator Charles Lindbergh returned to his home state of Minnesota to launch a series of war bonds drives. Lindbergh had gained international fame in 1927 for being the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, and he used his celebrity to encourage Americans to support the war effort during World War II.

4. On January 18, 1965, Minnesota became the first state to require seat belts in all new cars sold in the state. The law was championed by Governor Karl Rolvaag and aimed to reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths resulting from car accidents.

5. On January 18, 1982, Minnesota's largest-ever snowstorm hit the state, dumping more than 22 inches of snow on the Twin Cities in just two days. The snowstorm caused widespread havoc, with schools and businesses shutting down, roads becoming impassable, and power lines being knocked down. Despite the chaos, many Minnesotans found ways to enjoy the wintry weather, from sledding and snowshoeing to cozying up with hot chocolate and a good book.