1. In 1889, Washington became the 42nd state in the United States of America.
2. In 1942, the Battle of Midway began during World War II, which was a pivotal naval battle between Japan and the United States. Many soldiers from Washington state participated in this battle.
3. In 1975, the first Special Olympics were held in Washington state at the University of Puget Sound. This event was founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver to provide sports opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
4. In 1982, Seattle's Space Needle was added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural significance as an iconic landmark in the city.
5. In 2018, Washington state became the first to pass a net neutrality law, which prohibits internet service providers from blocking or slowing down certain websites or services.