1. In 1839, the United States Army established Fort Lauderdale in present-day Broward County. The fort was built to protect against Seminole Indian attacks and served as a base of operations during the Second Seminole War.

2. On January 25, 1894, the first train arrived in Miami, marking the beginning of the city's growth as a transportation hub and tourist destination. The arrival of the train made Miami accessible to visitors from across the country and helped to spur its development as a major city.

3. In 1939, the iconic Overseas Highway connecting Key West to the mainland was completed. The 113-mile highway includes 42 bridges and has been designated a National Scenic Byway. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state of Florida.

4. On January 25, 1963, the Beatles played their first concert in the United States at the Olympia Theater in Miami. The sold-out show was part of their first American tour and helped to spark the Beatlemania craze that swept the nation.

5. In 1991, the Gulf War began, with many military assets in Florida playing a critical role in the conflict. The state was home to several military bases and played a vital supply and logistics role during the war, with over 30,000 military personnel and 10,000 civilians involved in the effort.