1. In 1867, the Lincoln Memorial in Springfield, Illinois was dedicated. The monument was built in honor of Abraham Lincoln, the famous 16th president of the United States who hailed from Illinois.

2. In 1929, the St. Louis Cardinals won the World Series against the Philadelphia Athletics in Game 6, which was played in Chicago at Comiskey Park. This was the first time the World Series was broadcast on the radio.

3. In 1964, the University of Illinois at Chicago Circle (now known as the University of Illinois at Chicago or UIC) was officially dedicated. UIC is one of the largest universities in Illinois, with over 33,000 students.

4. In 1970, the Illinois Constitution was ratified by voters, replacing the previous constitution that had been in place since 1870. The new constitution gave more power to local governments and provided for greater protection of individual rights.

5. In 1991, the Chicago Bulls played their first regular season game at the United Center. The arena replaced the legendary Chicago Stadium as the Bulls' home court and has since become an iconic Chicago landmark. The Bulls won their first game at the United Center, beating the Philadelphia 76ers 94-88.