1. Welch Riot (1921): On March 5, 1921, a violent confrontation between striking miners and law enforcement officers erupted in Welch, McDowell County, West Virginia. The conflict, known as the Welch Riot, left seven officers and an unknown number of miners dead. The incident highlighted the tensions and conflicts that existed between miners and mine owners during this time of labor unrest in West Virginia.

2. Charleston Fire (1949): On March 5, 1949, a catastrophic fire destroyed much of downtown Charleston, West Virginia. The fire began in a downtown department store and quickly spread, causing millions of dollars in damage and leaving many residents homeless. The disaster led to improved fire safety regulations and building codes in the state.

3. First WVU President (1867): On March 5, 1867, the first president of West Virginia University (WVU), Alexander Martin, was inaugurated. Martin had been instrumental in developing the plan for WVU and securing its funding from the state legislature. He served as president until 1875 and oversaw the growth and development of the university during its early years.

4. First African American State Senator (1945): On March 5, 1945, West Virginia's first African American state senator, William "Teddy" Harrison, was sworn into office. Harrison represented McDowell County and served in the legislature until 1950. He was a strong advocate for civil rights, education, and economic development in his community.

5. Birth of Robert Byrd (1917): On March 5, 1917, Robert Byrd, who would become one of West Virginia's most influential politicians, was born in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina. Byrd served as a U.S. Senator from West Virginia for 51 years, from 1959 until his death in 2010. He was known for his mastery of Senate rules and procedures, as well as his ability to bring federal funding and projects to his home state.