1. On November 21, 1789, Illinois Territory officially became a part of the United States. At that time, the territory was primarily populated by Native American tribes, including the Miami, Ottawa, and Potawatomi peoples.

2. On November 21, 1927, the iconic Route 66 was established, passing through Illinois and connecting Chicago to Santa Monica, California. The road became a symbol of American transportation and innovation, inspiring countless songs, books, and films.

3. November 21, 1934 was the date the infamous Bonnie and Clyde gang was captured in a shootout in Illinois. The gang had been on the run from the law for years, committing multiple robberies and murders across the country.

4. In 1979, Illinois native and Olympic gold medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee set a record for the heptathlon at the TAC National Championships in Chicago. Her impressive athletic career included four Olympic gold medals and numerous world records.

5. On November 21, 2003, the historic Chicago Theatre reopened after undergoing a $14 million renovation. The theater, located in the Loop district of Chicago, originally opened in 1921 and has hosted countless performers, from vaudeville acts to modern musicals.