1. In 1834, the first Illinois State Convention was held in Vandalia, where delegates from all over the state came together to draft a new state constitution. This constitution would go on to serve Illinois until 1848, and was notable for its liberal principles and its guarantee of civil liberties.

2. In 1850, the Illinois State Normal University was founded in Normal, Illinois. This institution, now known as Illinois State University, was the first public university in the state of Illinois and is known for its strong programs in education, business, and the arts.

3. In 1943, the Chicago Blackhawks won their first Stanley Cup championship, defeating the Detroit Red Wings in the finals. This was notable because it was the first time that a team from Chicago had won a major professional sports championship.

4. In 1978, Governor James Thompson signed legislation creating the Illinois Lottery, which has since become a major source of revenue for the state. The first Illinois Lottery drawing was held on July 10, 1974, and the proceeds are used to fund education, infrastructure, and other state programs.

5. In 2018, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in favor of Illinois in the landmark case Janus v. AFSCME, which addressed the constitutionality of mandatory union fees in the public sector. This ruling was significant because it overturned decades of precedent and was seen as a major victory for conservatives and anti-union activists.