1. Birth of Johnny Carson: On October 23, 1925, Johnny Carson, one of the most iconic television hosts and comedians, was born in Corning, Iowa. He grew up in Norfolk, Nebraska and later attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln before moving to Illinois to pursue a career in radio.

2. Chicago Flood: On October 23, 1992, heavy rain caused the Chicago River to overflow its banks, leading to a serious flood that resulted in widespread damage to the city's Loop and North Side areas. Businesses and buildings were evacuated, and it took several days for the city to recover from the disaster.

3. Birth of Diane Nash: Civil Rights activist Diane Nash was born on October 23, 1938 in Chicago, Illinois. She was a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and played a prominent role in the Nashville sit-ins and the Freedom Rides.

4. World's Columbian Exposition: The World's Columbian Exposition, also known as the Chicago World's Fair, closed on October 23, 1893. The event was held to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas, and it attracted millions of visitors from around the world.

5. First McDonald's in Illinois: The first ever McDonald's franchise opened in Des Plaines, Illinois on October 23, 1955. The fast food chain went on to become one of the most successful and recognizable brands in the world.