1. On April 19, 1918, a deadly tornado struck parts of eastern Iowa, killing 13 people and injuring over 200 others. The tornado, which was estimated to have been an F4 on the Fujita scale, caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, and farms in the communities of Anamosa, Monticello, and Langworthy.

2. In 1959, the Iowa State Legislature established April 19 as "Iowa Independence Day," commemorating the state's admission to the Union on that date in 1846. The day is marked by celebrations and festivities throughout Iowa.

3. On April 19, 1967, the Cedar Rapids Gazette published the first of a series of articles on the Iowa Braille and Sight Saving School, which highlighted the inadequate facilities and conditions at the school. The articles led to an investigation by the state legislature and ultimately resulted in significant improvements to the school.

4. The University of Iowa Women's Resource and Action Center was established on April 19, 1971, as a response to the growing women's liberation movement. The center provides a wide range of resources and services to support women's empowerment and activism.

5. On April 19, 1995, the federal building in Oklahoma City was bombed, killing 168 people and injuring hundreds more. Iowa Governor Terry Branstad ordered all flags in the state to be flown at half-staff in honor of the victims.