1. On July 19, 1933, Iowa became the first state in the country to accept federal assistance through the National Recovery Administration. This program aimed to stimulate economic recovery during the Great Depression.

2. In 1965, on July 19, the Iowa State Fair saw its greatest attendance ever with a recorded 109,222 visitors.

3. On July 19, 1942, Private Merle Hay of Glidden, Iowa became the first Iowan and one of the first Americans to die during World War II. A military base near Des Moines was later named after him.

4. In 1994, on July 19, the Iowa Lottery set a record for the biggest daily game payout of $8.8 million.

5. July 19, 1865, marked the beginning of the first state fair held in Des Moines, Iowa. The fair has since become a beloved annual event and a celebration of Iowa's agricultural heritage.