1. Kentucky became the 15th state - On January 4, 1792, Kentucky officially became the 15th state of the United States.

2. Kentucky's first governor inaugurated - In the same year, Isaac Shelby was inaugurated as the first governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

3. Kentucky Confederate forces captured Union troops - On January 4, 1862, Confederate forces in Kentucky captured over 100 Union soldiers near Garfield, Kentucky.

4. Kentucky celebrated its bicentennial - On January 4, 1992, Kentucky celebrated its bicentennial with a variety of events, including reenactments, parades, and festivals.

5. Kentucky's longest-serving senator was born - On January 4, 1914, Kentucky's longest-serving senator, Wendell H. Ford, was born in Daviess County. Ford served in the Senate from 1974 to 1999, and during his career, he played a key role in several significant laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Clean Air Act.