1. Nebraska officially became a state on March 1, 1867, but it wasn't until December 31, 1867 that the state's first legislature convened in the newly constructed State Capitol building in Omaha.

2. On December 31, 1887, a blizzard swept across Nebraska, causing great damage and loss of life. It is estimated that over 200 people died in the storm, many of whom were traveling home after celebrating the New Year.

3. In 1943, the University of Nebraska's football team played in the Rose Bowl for the first time, facing off against the UCLA Bruins. Nebraska lost the game 14-7, but the event marked the beginning of the team's successful Rose Bowl history.

4. On December 31, 1978, the Omaha World-Herald published a controversial editorial endorsing the candidacy of white supremacist David Duke for the U.S. House of Representatives. The editorial drew widespread criticism and resulted in a drop in the newspaper's circulation.

5. In recent years, Lincoln, Nebraska has been named one of the best places in the United States to celebrate New Year's Eve. The city hosts an annual "Star City Holiday" event, which includes a fireworks show, live music, and family-friendly activities.