1. On March 31, 1859, the Illinois State Legislature passed the Public Library Act, which allowed for the creation of public libraries throughout the state. This act helped to promote educational opportunities and provided access to knowledge for all Illinois residents.

2. On March 31, 1864, the first Union Army veteran was buried in the new National Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois. The cemetery was established for the internment of Civil War soldiers who had died in the area hospitals.

3. On March 31, 1929, the famous Al Capone was arrested in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for carrying a concealed weapon. Capone, originally from Brooklyn, New York, had made a name for himself in the Chicago underworld and had been wanted by law enforcement for years.

4. On March 31, 1937, the Illinois Home Relief Commission was established. This organization provided assistance to Illinois citizens who were struggling during the Great Depression, helping them to secure food, shelter, and medical care.

5. On March 31, 1985, the first WrestleMania event was held at the Rosemont Horizon in Rosemont, Illinois. The event, which was broadcast on pay-per-view, featured wrestling stars such as Hulk Hogan and Mr. T and helped to solidify professional wrestling as a mainstream entertainment option.