1. In 1838, the first portion of the Erie Canal was opened in New York, connecting the Hudson River to Lake Erie. This historic waterway allowed for the transportation of goods and people across the state in a more efficient manner, leading to economic growth and prosperity.

2. On January 6, 1912, the New York City Board of Estimate approved the plans for the construction of the world-famous Grand Central Terminal. This iconic train station, known for its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and intricate celestial ceiling, has been a major landmark and hub of transportation for over a century.

3. In 1920, the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, granting women the right to vote. New York played a significant role in the suffrage movement, hosting the first women's rights convention in Seneca Falls in 1848 and serving as the largest state to grant women the right to vote prior to the national amendment.

4. January 6, 1941 marked the opening of the National Museum of the American Indian in New York City. This institution, part of the Smithsonian Institution, houses a vast collection of Native American art, artifacts, and cultural objects, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of indigenous history and traditions.

5. On January 6, 1950, former New York governor and future U.S. vice president Nelson Rockefeller delivered his "20-Year Plan" address, outlining his vision for the state's socioeconomic development. This ambitious plan included proposals for education reform, public works projects, and the creation of new industries, shaping the future of New York for decades to come.