1. Maine became a state on July 2, 1820, as part of the Missouri Compromise. This compromise allowed Maine to join the Union as a free state, while Missouri joined as a slave state. Maine was the 23rd state to join the United States.

2. On July 2, 1863, the Battle of Gettysburg began in Pennsylvania. Many soldiers from Maine fought in this battle, including Joshua Chamberlain, who became a hero for his actions on the second day of the battle.

3. In 1867, the first train arrived in Portland from Montreal on July 2. The train, which was operated by the Grand Trunk Railway, marked an important step in improving transportation and commerce in Maine.

4. On July 2, 1927, Charles Lindbergh flew over Maine during his historic solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean. Lindbergh's flight captured the world's attention and marked a significant milestone in aviation history.

5. In 1998, on July 2, the Maine Turnpike Authority opened a new toll plaza at Exit 44 in Scarborough. The new plaza was designed to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion on the busy highway.