1. On August 19, 1952, the Michigan state government established the Michigan Liquor Control Commission to regulate the distribution, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages in the state.

2. In 1972, a major fire broke out at the historic Butler County Courthouse in Michigan's capital city of Lansing on August 19. The fire destroyed much of the building and its contents, including valuable historical documents.

3. On August 19, 1812, the Battle of Thames occurred in southeastern Michigan during the War of 1812. The American victory in this battle secured control of the Great Lakes region for the United States and marked the end of significant Native American resistance in the area.

4. The University of Michigan, one of the state's flagship public institutions, was founded on August 19, 1817. Since then, it has become one of the top universities in the country and has produced many notable alumni, including former President Gerald Ford and entrepreneur Elon Musk.

5. August 19, 1939 is the birthday of Michigan native Ed Markey, who went on to become a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts. Markey has been a prominent advocate for environmental protection and has sponsored many bills related to climate change and renewable energy.