1. On July 11, 1859, prospectors found gold on the banks of Cherry Creek, leading to the Pike's Peak Gold Rush and the settlement of Denver.

2. In 1876, the Colorado State Constitution was adopted on July 11, establishing the framework for Colorado's government.

3. On July 11, 1893, the first Chautauqua was held in Boulder, Colorado, a popular educational and cultural movement that spread across the United States in the early 20th century.

4. The United States Air Force Academy was established on July 11, 1955, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, providing higher education and military training to officers of the Air Force.

5. On July 11, 2013, the Black Forest Fire, the most destructive wildfire in Colorado's history, was declared 100% contained after burning over 14,000 acres and destroying over 500 homes.