1. Missouri entered the Union on December 5, 1821 - December 5th marks the anniversary of the day when Missouri officially became the 24th state of the United States.

2. Thomas Hart Benton, one of Missouri's most famous politicians, was born on December 5, 1782 - Benton served as a US Senator for Missouri from 1821 to 1851 and was a strong advocate for the expansion of the United States' western territories.

3. The St. Louis Cardinals won their first World Series on December 5, 1926 - The team defeated the New York Yankees in Game 7 of the series, with pitcher Grover Cleveland Alexander making a save in the final inning.

4. December 5, 1955, was the start of the Montgomery Bus Boycott - Although this historic event took place in Alabama, the boycott had a significant impact on the civil rights movement in Missouri and the rest of the country.

5. Ozark National Scenic Riverways was established on December 5, 1964 - This national park in southeastern Missouri is home to over 130 miles of the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers and offers recreational activities such as canoeing, fishing, and hiking.