1. 1849 - Michigan becomes the first state to abolish the death penalty: On May 22, 1849, Michigan Governor William L. Greenly signed into law a bill abolishing the death penalty in the state. Michigan became the first state in the United States to abolish capital punishment for all crimes except for treason.

2. 1939 - The first National Cherry Festival is held in Traverse City, Michigan: On May 22, 1939, the first National Cherry Festival was held in Traverse City, Michigan. The festival celebrates the region's cherry orchards, which produce more than 75 percent of the United States' tart cherry crop.

3. 1967 - The Detroit Tigers score a record-breaking 16 runs in one inning: On May 22, 1967, the Detroit Tigers set a major league baseball record by scoring 16 runs in one inning against the Washington Senators. The inning featured three home runs and two triples, and the Tigers went on to win the game 19-0.

4. 1992 - Johnny Carson gives his final performance on The Tonight Show: On May 22, 1992, Michigan-born comedian Johnny Carson gave his final performance as host of The Tonight Show. Carson hosted the show for 30 years, becoming one of the most beloved and influential figures in American television history.

5. 2015 - SpaceX launches a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral with supplies for the International Space Station: On May 22, 2015, SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, carrying over 4,300 pounds of supplies and equipment for the International Space Station. The launch was a significant milestone in SpaceX's efforts to develop reusable rockets and make space travel more affordable and accessible.