1. On December 22, 1879, the first telephone was installed in Helena, Montana. The telephone was installed by the Bell Telephone Company, and it was a significant step in the development of the state's communication infrastructure.

2. December 22, 1931, marked the opening of the Montana State Capitol building in Helena. The building, which was designed by Charles E. Bell, is the seat of the Montana state government and is an important symbol of the state's history and identity.

3. On December 22, 1956, a massive snowstorm struck the state, causing widespread disruption and damage. The storm, which lasted for several days, deposited up to 60 inches of snow in some areas, causing severe travel delays and power outages.

4. December 22, 1984, was a significant day in the state's mining history. On that day, the Berkeley Pit in Butte, Montana, reached its highest level, flooding several nearby mines and threatening to contaminate the groundwater with toxic chemicals.

5. December 22, 2004, was the day that the state of Montana officially recognized the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation as a sovereign entity. The decision was based on historic treaties between the federal government and the tribes, and it marked a significant step forward for native rights and recognition in Montana.