1. Kentucky becomes the 15th state in the Union:
On July 7, 1798, Kentucky became the 15th state in the United States. It was the first state west of the Appalachian Mountains to be admitted to the Union. The state's name comes from the Native American word "Ken-tah-ten," meaning "land of tomorrow."

2. The Battle of Corydon:
On July 7, 1863, the Battle of Corydon took place in southern Indiana, just across the river from Kentucky. Although Kentucky was not directly involved in the battle, it was an important moment in the history of the Civil War.

3. Birth of a famous musician:
On July 7, 1927, the famous musician Doc Severinsen was born in Arlington, Oregon. He is best known for his work as the bandleader on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" from 1967 to 1992. Severinsen played the trumpet and was known for his flashy wardrobe.

4. An aviation tragedy:
On July 7, 1996, a ValuJet DC-9 crashed into the Florida Everglades, killing all 110 people on board. One of the victims was a resident of Louisville, Kentucky. The crash led to an investigation into the safety practices of ValuJet and ultimately, its merger with AirTran Airways.

5. Kentucky Derby winner:
On July 7, 2007, the horse Street Sense won the Belmont Stakes, becoming the first horse in 102 years to win both the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes. Street Sense was owned by James Tafel, a Louisville businessman. The horse was trained by Carl Nafzger and ridden by jockey Calvin Borel.