1. In 1859, a group of gold prospectors founded the town of Breckenridge in Summit County, Colorado. Today, it serves as a popular ski resort destination and a historic mining town.

2. On June 15, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed a bill into law creating the nation's first national park, Yellowstone. Although the park itself is not in Colorado, the legislation set the precedent for the protection of natural areas across the country.

3. In 1925, the Rocky Mountain National Park was established, encompassing 265,769 acres in northern Colorado. It remains one of Colorado's most popular and iconic natural attractions.

4. On June 15, 1937, the town of La Junta, Colorado was hit by a powerful tornado that caused widespread destruction and multiple fatalities. The tornado remains one of the deadliest in Colorado history.

5. In 1986, the Colorado Rockies were established as a Major League Baseball team, becoming the newest franchise in the league. Over the years, the team has faced many ups and downs but remains a beloved part of Colorado sports culture.