1. In 1845, Florida officially became the 27th state of the United States. The state capital was initially located in Tallahassee, and remains so to this day.

2. In 1959, the first public university in South Florida, Florida Atlantic University, was founded in Boca Raton. Today, the university has multiple campuses throughout the region and offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs.

3. In 1975, the iconic "Welcome to Miami Beach" sign was erected at the entrance to the city. The sign, with its colorful neon lettering and palm tree iconography, has become a beloved symbol of the city and a popular spot for photos.

4. In 1980, the Miami Symphony Orchestra gave its first concert under the direction of its founder and conductor, Manuel Ochoa. The orchestra, which has since featured a roster of internationally renowned guest performers, is known for its passionate performances of classical and contemporary music.

5. In 2012, NASA astronaut and former U.S. Navy Captain Mark Kelly moved to Florida to become the director of flight crew operations for the commercial spaceflight company World View Enterprises. Kelly, who is also a seasoned author and advocate for gun safety measures, has been instrumental in advancing the cause of space exploration and private-sector space travel.