1. The Battle of Wounded Knee: On December 22, 1890, the tragic Battle of Wounded Knee took place in South Dakota. It was one of the last major conflicts in the American Indian Wars and resulted in the death of over 250 Native Americans, including women and children.

2. South Dakota Statehood Day: December 22, 1889, is the day that South Dakota was officially granted statehood. This milestone event is celebrated annually in South Dakota as Statehood Day.

3. Blizzard of 1880: On December 22, 1880, South Dakota was hit by one of the worst blizzards in its history. The storm lasted for three days and resulted in a total of 300 deaths throughout the Great Plains.

4. Homestake Gold Mine: On December 22, 1877, a major gold discovery was made at the Homestake Gold Mine in Deadwood, South Dakota. The mine went on to produce over 40 million ounces of gold over its lifetime, becoming one of the largest and most productive gold mines in the world.

5. Black Hills National Forest established: On December 22, 1897, President Grover Cleveland established the Black Hills National Forest. The forest covers over 1.2 million acres and is home to some of the most pristine wildlife and natural scenery in the United States.