1. Battle of Gettysburg: On July 3, 1863, the Battle of Gettysburg took place, one of the most important battles of the American Civil War. North Carolina troops played a significant role in the battle, specifically during Pickett's Charge, one of the most famous and unsuccessful charges in military history.

2. Wright Brothers' First Flight: On July 3, 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright made their first flight in a powered aircraft at Kill Devil Hills in North Carolina. The flight lasted just 12 seconds and covered a distance of 120 feet, but it marked the beginning of a new era in aviation.

3. Pepsi-Cola is Invented: On July 3, 1898, Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist from New Bern, North Carolina, created a new drink called "Brad's Drink" that he later renamed "Pepsi-Cola." The drink became one of the most popular sodas in the world, and the company is still based in North Carolina to this day.

4. Supercell Thunderstorm: On July 3, 2014, a supercell thunderstorm touched down in North Carolina, causing widespread damage and power outages. The storm produced tornadoes, hail, and dangerous lightning, and it was one of the most severe weather events in the state's history.

5. Governor Roy Cooper is Born: On July 3, 1957, Roy Cooper was born in Nashville, North Carolina. He went on to become a lawyer and a politician, and he now serves as the Governor of North Carolina. He is the 75th governor of the state and has been in office since 2017, and he is known for his commitment to education, healthcare, and environmental protection.