1. In 1867, the United States officially took control of Alaska from Russia, marking the end of the Alaska Purchase. May 7th is now celebrated as Alaska Day throughout the state.
2. In 1915, the SS Prinzessin Victoria Luise became the first cruise ship to sail to Alaska from the mainland United States. The ship stopped in Ketchikan on May 7th before continuing its journey to other ports in the state.
3. In 1945, a devastating fire broke out in downtown Juneau, destroying much of the business district. The fire started on May 7th and raged for several days, leaving more than 50 buildings in ruins.
4. In 1962, a major earthquake rattled Alaska, measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale. The quake caused widespread damage throughout the state, but no fatalities were reported. The earthquake struck on May 7th, and is now known as the Great Alaska Earthquake.
5. In 1994, the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act was amended to allow for the creation of the Alaska Native Science Commission. The commission is tasked with investigating the impact of scientific research on Alaska Native communities, and promoting the use of traditional knowledge in scientific research. The amendment was signed into law on May 7th.