1. In 1945, the Japanese officially surrendered to the Allied Powers aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, ending World War II. This event is known as V-J Day (Victory over Japan Day) and took place on September 2. While this event did not directly impact Alaska, as it was not yet a state, it had significant global implications and marked the end of a devastating war.

2. On September 2, 2004, a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck Alaska's Aleutian Islands, triggering a tsunami that caused waves of up to 35 feet high. The earthquake and subsequent tsunami caused significant damage to several small villages, and the U.S. government declared a disaster area in several areas of Alaska.

3. September 2, 2002, marked the official start of the ANWR (Arctic National Wildlife Refuge) oil drilling debate. The U.S. Senate voted on this day to approve drilling in the refuge, which sparked controversy and heated debates among lawmakers and citizens alike. The issue remains unresolved to this day, with many Alaskans still divided on the topic.

4. In 1969, on September 2, the first statewide election in Alaska was held since statehood was granted in 1959. This marked an important milestone in Alaska's history and democracy, as Alaskans exercised their right to vote on statewide issues and candidates for the first time as a part of the United States.

5. On September 2, 2001, the first ever circumnavigation of the world by a balloon was completed by pilot Steve Fossett in the "Spirit of Freedom." While this event did not take place in Alaska, Fossett had attempted to complete the historic journey several times before finally succeeding, and his achievement serves as a reminder of the pioneering spirit and adventurous nature of many Alaskans.