1. On June 2, 1837, the Illinois State Legislature approved the creation of the Illinois and Michigan Canal, a landmark transportation project that connected Lake Michigan to the Illinois River and helped spur economic growth throughout the state.

2. June 2, 1966, saw the tragic tornado outbreak that swept across northern Illinois, causing widespread damage and claiming the lives of over 50 people.

3. The Chicago Mercantile Exchange, one of the world's leading financial markets, was founded on June 2, 1898, and played a major role in the development of modern futures trading.

4. On June 2, 1883, the famous railway tycoon George Pullman unveiled his luxurious sleeper car, the "Palace Car," which quickly became a symbol of American mobility and luxury travel.

5. June 2, 1912, marked the opening of the new Lincoln Highway, the first transcontinental highway in the United States, which connected New York City to San Francisco and helped spur the growth of the American automobile industry.