1. Thomas Edison patented the first commercially successful incandescent light bulb on November 21, 1879, in Menlo Park, New Jersey. This invention revolutionized the way people lit their homes and businesses.

2. On November 21, 1783, the first successful air-balloon flight by a human occurred over New Jersey. The balloon was piloted by Jean-Pierre Blanchard and John Jeffries, who flew from Philadelphia to Deptford Township, NJ.

3. On November 21, 1934, the George Washington Bridge opened to traffic, connecting Fort Lee, New Jersey, with Manhattan. At the time of its construction, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world and a marvel of modern engineering.

4. Beloved children's author and illustrator Maurice Sendak was born in Brooklyn, NY, on November 21, 1928. He spent much of his childhood in Ridgefield, New Jersey, and many of his books, including "Where the Wild Things Are," were inspired by his experiences growing up in the state.

5. On November 21, 1789, the New Jersey Legislature ratified the United States Constitution, becoming the first state to do so after the initial ratification by Delaware. New Jersey played a crucial role in the formation of the country, hosting the Continental Congress and serving as a key battleground during the Revolutionary War.