1. In 1781, the British surrendered at Yorktown, Virginia, effectively ending the Revolutionary War. This victory for the American forces played a significant role in shaping the future of New York and the United States as a whole.

2. On October 19, 1884, the first subway in New York City officially opened its doors. The line ran from City Hall to Harlem, spanning about 10 miles. The subway system would go on to become a vital aspect of the city's transportation infrastructure.

3. In 1936, jazz musician and composer Jelly Roll Morton recorded his famous tune "King Porter Stomp" in New York City. Morton was a key figure in the development of jazz, and this recording session was a critical moment in his career.

4. On this day in 1977, the first World Series game was played at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. The Yankees ultimately went on to win the series, marking their first championship in 15 years.

5. Finally, on October 19, 2011, the Occupy Wall Street movement made its way to New York City's Times Square. This was a significant moment in the movement, which aimed to raise awareness about economic inequality and corporate greed. The protest would go on to inspire similar demonstrations around the world.