1. In 1859, Nevada became a territory of the United States. This occurred when President James Buchanan signed legislation that created the Nevada Territory, which included all of present-day Nevada along with parts of Utah, California, and Arizona.

2. In 1929, construction began on the Hoover Dam. This engineering marvel straddles the border between Nevada and Arizona and is one of the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world. It was completed in 1936.

3. In 1931, the Nevada state legislature legalized gambling. This move was intended to boost the state's economy during the Great Depression, and it proved to be wildly successful. Today, Nevada is known as the gambling capital of the world.

4. In 1999, the Las Vegas Monorail opened to the public. This elevated train connects several major casinos and hotels along the Las Vegas Strip, making it easier for visitors to get around without having to deal with traffic.

5. In 2018, the Nevada State Assembly passed a bill that restored voting rights to ex-felons who had completed their sentences. This bill, known as AB 181, was signed into law by Governor Brian Sandoval and made Nevada one of several states to adopt such legislation.