1. On October 24, 1929, just five days after "Black Thursday" triggered the Great Depression, the California State Legislature convened a special session to address the economic crisis. Many businesses and residents in California were also severely impacted by the stock market crash and subsequent economic downturn.

2. In 1962, on October 24th, the University of California, Berkeley campus was the site of a large protest, known as the "Free Speech Movement." Students were protesting restrictions on their political activities and freedom of expression. This event helped spark a broader movement for civil rights and social justice on college campuses across the United States.

3. October 24, 2017, marked a historic day in California as it became the first state to require pet stores to sell only rescue animals. The law helped to combat puppy mills and provide more opportunities for shelter animals to find homes.

4. In 1944, on October 24th, the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the largest naval battle in history, began in the Pacific theater of World War II. California played a significant role in the war effort, with many soldiers, sailors, and Marines stationed around the state.

5. On October 24, 2003, California experienced one of the largest wildfires in its history. The Old Fire burned more than 91,000 acres and destroyed more than 1,000 homes, causing millions of dollars in damage. The state has faced many devastating wildfires in recent years, highlighting the ongoing threat of climate change and the need for proactive measures to mitigate the risk.