1. On October 22, 1962, the Cuban Missile Crisis reached its peak as President John F. Kennedy informed the American public that Soviet missiles were being installed in Cuba. This event brought the United States and the Soviet Union to the brink of nuclear war, and it is considered one of the most dangerous moments in the Cold War.

2. In 2001, on October 22, Microsoft released Windows XP, which became one of the most popular computer operating systems in history.

3. On October 22, 1986, President Ronald Reagan signed the Tax Reform Act of 1986, which simplified and lowered tax rates for many Americans. This legislation is credited with spurring economic growth in the 1980s.

4. The National Museum of African American History and Culture opened its doors to the public on October 22, 2016. The museum is located on the National Mall in Washington DC and is dedicated to showcasing the cultural and historical contributions of African Americans to American society.

5. On October 22, 1797, the USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides," was launched in Boston Harbor. This was one of the first ships built for the United States Navy, and it played an important role in the War of 1812. Today, the USS Constitution is a museum ship and a popular tourist attraction in Boston.