1. In 1977, oil was discovered in the Prudhoe Bay oil fields on Alaska's North Slope, marking the beginning of a major economic boom for the state. The discovery of oil helped fuel the state's economy for decades to come.

2. On June 26, 1912, pioneer aviator Carl Ben Eielson was born in Hatton, North Dakota. Eielson was a pioneering aviator and bush pilot who played a critical role in the development of Alaska's aviation industry.

3. In 1941, the United States Army announced plans to build a major military installation in Alaska. The resulting construction effort, known as the Alaska-Canada (ALCAN) Highway, helped connect the remote state with the rest of the country.

4. June 26, 1959, marked an important milestone in Alaska's history, as President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Alaska Statehood Act. The bill paved the way for Alaska to become the 49th US state on January 3, 1959.

5. On June 26, 2013, a high-speed train derailed in the town of Lac-Mégantic, Quebec, killing 47 people and causing major damage to the surrounding area. The accident highlighted the importance of safe transportation infrastructure and the potential dangers of transporting hazardous materials through rural communities.