1. The first congress of the United States met in New York City on June 4, 1789. This was the first time that the newly-formed government had gathered together to conduct official business. The congress met at Federal Hall, which still stands as a historic landmark in the Financial District.

2. On June 4, 1942, the Battle of Midway began. This pivotal battle took place in the Pacific Theater of World War II and is widely considered to be one of the most important naval battles in the history of the United States. Although the battle was fought thousands of miles away from New York, it had a significant impact on the city and its residents.

3. June 4, 1892 saw the opening of Ellis Island, the historic immigration station that welcomed millions of new arrivals to the United States. Between 1892 and 1954, Ellis Island processed more than 12 million immigrants, making it a key site in the history of New York City and the United States as a whole.

4. On June 4, 1909, the first race was held at the newly-constructed Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Although the event took place in Indiana, it had a significant impact on the development of the automobile industry in New York City, which was already a hub of manufacturing and transportation.

5. June 4, 1940 marked the opening of the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel, a major transportation infrastructure project that helped to connect the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan. The tunnel remains an important thoroughfare in New York City today, and continues to play a key role in the city's economy and daily life.