1) In 1859, the Pike's Peak Gold Rush began in Colorado when gold was discovered near Denver, bringing thousands of prospectors to the area.

2) On May 6, 1878, the infamous "Shootout at Blazer's Mill" occurred near Pueblo, Colorado. A group of bandits attempted to rob a stagecoach, but were chased down by a posse led by famous lawman Bat Masterson. In the ensuing gunfight, three of the bandits were killed and Masterson was wounded.

3) The United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs was established on May 6, 1955. The Academy trains and educates officers for the Air Force and is known for its stunning campus architecture.

4) May 6, 1996 marked the beginning of a devastating wildfire dubbed the "Buffalo Creek Fire" in Jefferson County, Colorado. The fire burned over 12,000 acres and destroyed over 130 homes, resulting in one of the worst wildfire disasters in Colorado history.

5) On May 6, 2002, Colorado became the first state in the United States to legalize the use of medical marijuana, paving the way for a changing national attitudes towards the drug. Today, Colorado is one of several states where recreational marijuana is also legal.