1. On June 27, 1839, the town of Quincy, Illinois, was incorporated. Located in western Illinois along the Mississippi River, Quincy quickly became an important transportation and trade hub. Today, it is known for its historic architecture and cultural attractions.

2. On June 27, 1893, the Chicago World's Columbian Exposition closed after six months of operation. The fair, which celebrated the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas, featured exhibits and attractions from around the world and attracted millions of visitors. It also introduced new technologies and popularized the use of the alternating current for electricity.

3. On June 27, 1944, during World War II, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign became the site of the first successful artificial nuclear reactor. Known as the Chicago Pile-1, the reactor was designed and built by a team of scientists led by physicist Enrico Fermi. The experiment proved that nuclear fission could be controlled and paved the way for the development of nuclear power.

4. On June 27, 1985, a severe thunderstorm struck the suburbs of Chicago, causing extensive damage and several deaths. The storm produced hail the size of baseballs and winds of up to 100 miles per hour, toppling trees and damaging buildings. It was one of the most destructive storms in Illinois history.

5. On June 27, 2011, the Chicago Bulls drafted basketball superstar Derrick Rose with the first overall pick in the NBA draft. Rose, a Chicago native, went on to become the youngest player to win the NBA Most Valuable Player Award and led the Bulls to the playoffs several times before being traded to other teams. He remains a beloved figure in Chicago sports history.