1. The founding of the University of Michigan: On May 2, 1817, the Michigan Territory legislature passed a law that created the University of Michigan. This followed a proposal by the Reverend John Monteith and the Reverend Gabriel Richard, who wanted to establish a college to provide higher education to the growing population of Michigan.

2. The Battle of Pigeon Roost: On May 2, 1812, Native American warriors attacked a small settlement called Pigeon Roost in what is now Medora Township, Michigan. They killed 15 people and took two captive. This was one of the first known attacks of the War of 1812 on Michigan soil.

3. The sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald: On November 10, 1975, the Edmund Fitzgerald, a massive cargo ship, sank in Lake Superior after encountering a severe storm. All 29 crew members perished in the disaster. On May 2, 1976, a plaque honoring the lost crew was unveiled at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Paradise, Michigan.

4. The creation of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: On October 21, 1970, President Richard Nixon signed a bill that authorized the creation of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan. The lakeshore, which covers more than 70,000 acres and includes 35 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, is known for its towering sand dunes and stunning natural beauty.

5. The Michigan state capitol building was dedicated: On January 1, 1879, the Michigan state capitol building was officially dedicated in Lansing. Designed by architect Elijah E. Myers, the building features a stunning cast iron dome that stands more than 160 feet tall. Today, it remains one of the most iconic landmarks in the state.