1. Nebraska becomes a state: On April 23, 1867, President Andrew Johnson signed a proclamation admitting Nebraska as the 37th state in the United States. This was a significant moment in Nebraska history as it marked the end of a long battle for statehood for the territory.


2. First Arbor Day celebration: On April 23, 1872, Nebraska held the first ever Arbor Day celebration in the United States. Julius Sterling Morton, a Nebraska journalist and a member of the State Board of Agriculture, proposed the idea to dedicate a day for tree planting and conservation. It quickly caught on and is now observed in all 50 states and many countries around the world.


3. Nebraska's first female mayor: On April 23, 1960, Irma Geddes became the first female mayor of Rushville, Nebraska. This was a historic moment for the state and paved the way for more women to take on leadership roles in Nebraska politics.


4. Nebraska's centennial celebration: On April 23, 1967, Nebraska celebrated its 100th birthday as a state with a series of events and festivities. This included a parade in downtown Lincoln, a time capsule burial, and a fireworks display.


5. Nebraska celebrates Shakespeare's birthday: On April 23, 2016, Nebraska celebrated William Shakespeare's 452nd birthday with a series of events and performances. This included Shakespeare-themed workshops and a production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" by the Nebraska Shakespeare Festival. This highlights the state's commitment to arts and culture.