1. Salem Witch Trials Begin: On October 20, 1692, the Salem Witch Trials began with the hanging of Bridget Bishop. The trials would go on to result in the execution of 19 people, and the imprisonment of more than 150 others.

2. Boston Red Sox Win the World Series: On October 20, 2004, the Boston Red Sox won the World Series for the first time since 1918. The team broke the "Curse of the Bambino," and became the first team in MLB history to win the championship after trailing in a series 0-3.

3. The Constitution of Massachusetts is Ratified: On October 20, 1780, the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts was ratified by a popular vote. It is the oldest functioning written constitution in the world.

4. Death of Senator Edward Brooke: On October 20, 2015, Senator Edward Brooke, the first African-American elected to the United States Senate by popular vote, died at the age of 95. Brooke was a champion of civil rights legislation and an influential politician in Massachusetts for many years.

5. First Commuter Rail Service in Massachusetts: On October 20, 1834, the Boston and Worcester Railroad began operation in Massachusetts. This was the first commuter rail service in the state, and it helped to spur the growth of Boston and other cities in the region.