1. November 9, 1958: The first ballot initiative was passed in Alaska, paving the way for citizen-led initiatives and referendums in the state.

2. November 9, 1971: The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act was signed into law. This historic legislation provided financial compensation and land grants to Alaska Native groups whose land had been taken by the federal government.

3. November 9, 1989: The fall of the Berlin Wall was celebrated in Alaska, as well as around the world. Alaskans joined in the jubilation and hope for the end of the Cold War.

4. November 9, 2004: Alaska voters passed a ballot initiative banning same-sex marriage in the state. It was the first state to do so via a popular vote.

5. November 9, 2008: Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin became a global media sensation after being named the Republican Party's candidate for vice-president. Despite the controversy surrounding her campaign, she remains a prominent figure in Alaskan politics.