1. Disneyland's Opening Day

July 17, 1955, was the grand opening of Disneyland in Anaheim, California. The theme park was the brainchild of Walt Disney, and its opening was a significant event in California's entertainment and tourism industry.

2. The San Francisco Giants' First Game

On July 17, 1883, the San Francisco Giants played their first Major League Baseball game. The team was originally known as the New York Gothams before changing their name to the Giants in 1885.

3. The 1994 Northridge Earthquake

On July 17, 1994, a magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck the southern California city of Northridge. The earthquake caused widespread damage, including collapsed buildings and overpasses, and resulted in the deaths of 57 people.

4. The California Missions

On July 17, 1769, Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolá established a mission in present-day San Diego, marking the beginning of the California missions. Over the following decades, 21 more missions were established along California's coast, playing a significant role in the state's history and culture.

5. John Fremont's Exploration of California

On July 17, 1846, explorer John Fremont arrived in California, beginning a series of expeditions that would map much of the state. Fremont's explorations played an important role in the development of California, leading to the land becoming part of the United States and later attracting settlers and businesses.