1. The Battle of Camp Wildcat occurred on December 24, 1861, in Kentucky during the American Civil War. Indiana soldiers played a significant role in the Union victory, which helped secure Kentucky for the Union and prevent Confederate forces from advancing into the state.

2. On December 24, 1832, the Indiana State Legislature passed a law that established the state's first public school system. The law required counties to establish schools and provide funding for them, laying the foundation for the state's extensive public education system.

3. The infamous "Christmas Bombings" of 1972 occurred on December 24, during the Vietnam War. The U.S. Air Force dropped thousands of bombs on Hanoi and other cities in North Vietnam, causing widespread destruction and civilian casualties.

4. On December 24, 1918, the USS Indiana (BB-1), the first battleship of the United States Navy named after the state, was decommissioned. The ship fought in the Spanish-American War and played a role in the capture of Manila in 1898.

5. December 24, 1967, was a significant day in Indiana basketball history, as the Pacers played their first game in the American Basketball Association. The game, which was played at the State Fair Coliseum in Indianapolis, was a 121-106 victory over the Kentucky Colonels. The Pacers went on to win three ABA championships during their time in the league.